Sarah Filipiak

advanced training Featured

Understanding canine reactivity + new course waitlist open! 🚀

Explore the causes behind canine reactivity, including dog-to-dog and dog-to-human interactions, and learn how to identify and manage these triggers for a happier, more relaxed pet.

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Become a confident in-home dog trainer: Free guide on how I conduct in-home training sessions

Unleash your potential as a professional dog trainer with our guide, "Secrets to Successful In-Home Training Sessions." Master the art of first impressions, streamline your sessions, and boost your confidence. Your journey to becoming the sought-after trainer starts here.

dog training

Keep an eye on emotions to ease your dog's learning curve

Dog trainers can incorporate breaks and use a dog's body language to read emotions and improve communication and training effectiveness.

behavior

Keeping your home-alone dog entertained

Create a stimulating environment for your dog when they're home alone. Read on for creative DIY puzzles, smart toy suggestions, and the importance of interaction with dog walkers or pet sitters.

Simple tricks to help dog training clients succeed

Are you a professional dog trainer looking for ways to better communicate with your clients? Are you familiar with the communication challenges that arise when training clients’ dogs? If so, then this article can help you hone your communication skills and ensure successful client-trainer relationships. From understanding the importance of

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advanced training

The tail-wagging toolkit: Essential reads for every dog trainer

We've painstakingly curated an essential list of dog training and behavior resources. Books, videos, articles – you name it. From understanding dog aggression and managing separation anxiety to mastering the techniques of positive reinforcement, this list encompasses it all!

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

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

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

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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.

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. "

behavior

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

Unlock the secrets to understanding your dog's relaxed state with expert tips from a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Learn to read your dog's body language and discover how to create a calming environment.

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

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

Certainly! Here's a concise and informative SEO meta description for the article: Learn how to spot signs of stress in your dog with expert advice from a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Discover key stress indicators, effective calming tips, and when to seek help for your stressed pup.