# Train Canine
> Practical puppy training, behavior support, cooperative care, and training-plan resources for serious dog people, puppy families, and trainers.
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Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`).

## Pages
- [About Train Canine](https://www.traincanine.com/about.md) - Train Canine helps new puppy families, dog-training enthusiasts, and trainers understand dog behavior, solve real training problems, and build clearer training plans. Train Canine is for people who want to understand dog training. Whether you're a professional dog trainer working with real client c…
- [Basic Manners](https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners-course.md) - In this course, you’ll go step-by-step with a certified dog behavior consultant to improve your dog’s behavior. Whatever behavior problem your dog is experiencing, you can improve it by regularly practicing what you learn in this four-week training course.
- [Basic Manners Course: Start here](https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners-curriculum.md) - This step-by-step curriculum is designed to improve your dog's behavior.
- [Basic Manners: Lesson Four - By me](https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners-lesson-four-by-me.md)
- [Basic Manners: Lesson One - Settle](https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners-lesson-one-settle.md)
- [Basic Manners: Lesson Three - Pay attention](https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners-lesson-three.md)
- [Basic Manners: Lesson Two - Stay](https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners-lesson-two-stay.md)
- [Basic Manners: Take your training on the road](https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners-taking-your-training-on-the-road.md)
- [Become a Pro Dog Trainer](https://www.traincanine.com/become-a-pro-dog-trainer-course.md) - Learn the core principles of professional dog training and start a successful business Enroll in the course Become a Pro Dog Trainer is a 6-unit, self-paced online course that teaches the core principles of professional dog training to anyone who wants to start a new business or gain expertise work…
- [Get in touch](https://www.traincanine.com/contact.md) - Fill out the form below if you have a question for us. Your Name Your Email Message Send If you haven’t already, sign up for my free newsletter filled with practical training tips, expert advice, and updates to help you navigate life with your growing puppy. I'd like to subscribe to the free newsle…
- [Privacy policy](https://www.traincanine.com/privacy-policy-2.md) - This site does not use any tracking cookies of any kind. If you have subscribed to our mailing list, you data will be used to send you email from Train Canine. We will never share or sell your information with a third party.
- [Start here](https://www.traincanine.com/start-here.md) - New to Train Canine? Start with the right path for puppy help, dog behavior, serious training study, professional trainer education, or better training plans.
- [Wait at Door: Before you begin](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door-before-you-begin.md)
- [Wait at Door: Start here](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door-getting-started.md) - 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?
- [Wait at Door: Lesson Four](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door-lesson-four.md)
- [Wait at Door: Lesson One](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door-lesson-one.md)
- [Wait at Door: Lesson Three](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door-lesson-three.md)
- [Wait at Door: Lesson Two](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door-lesson-two.md)
- [Wait at Door: Video demonstration](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door-video-demonstration.md)
- [Wait at Door: Wrapping up](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door-wrapping-up.md)

## Posts
- [What should you do next as a new dog trainer? A practical career roadmap](https://www.traincanine.com/what-should-you-do-next-new-dog-trainer.md)
- [How to prepare for a dog behavior consultation: A workbook for dog trainers](https://www.traincanine.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-dog-behavior-consultation-a-workbook-for-dog-trainers.md) - There is a point in many dog training careers when the cases start to feel different. A client reaches out because their dog is barking and lunging on walks, growling at visitors, snapping during handling, panicking when left alone, or suddenly acting in a way the family does not understand. They w…
- [Dog training versus dog behavior consulting: How can we tell the difference?](https://www.traincanine.com/dog-training-versus-dog-behavior-consulting-tell-the-difference.md) - Have you ever wondered whether you're facing a dog training problem or a behavior consulting case? This could feel like an easy distinction, maybe sorted by levels of difficulty or by how complex the case is: A dog who has never learned to sit seems like a training problem. A dog who growls when so…
- [Sold out: Expanding Your Career to Dog Behavior Consulting](https://www.traincanine.com/expanding-career-dog-behavior-consulting.md) - A six-week APDT International certificate course taught by Sarah Filipiak, CDBC, for trainers and serious learners interested in expanding into dog behavior consulting.
- [Are you ready to move into dog behavior consulting?](https://www.traincanine.com/ready-for-behavior-consulting.md) - Many professional dog trainers do not start out with the goal to get into behavior consulting. They start with training: Puppy classes, manners and family dog classes and all those skills clients frequently ask for. Loose leash walking. Recall. Settle on a mat. Private lessons for jumping, pulling,…
- [Your dog “knows” what you’re asking. So why won’t they do it?](https://www.traincanine.com/adolescent-dog-wont-listen.md) - There is a certain kind of frustration that happens when your dog looks right at you, hears what you asked, and does something else. And you know: they're not confused and they're not afraid. It just feels like they understand the request and have decided to do something else. If you have an adoles…
- [What is a dog behavior consultant? How the role differs from dog training](https://www.traincanine.com/what-is-a-dog-behavior-consultant.md) - Many dog professionals reach a point where basic training questions start to turn into bigger behavior questions. A dog can sit, stay, and walk nicely in class, but at home, they panic when guests arrive. A client says their dog is “stubborn,” but the pattern looks more like fear, stress, or confus…
- [Why does grooming become a struggle for so many dogs?](https://www.traincanine.com/why-dog-grooming-becomes-a-struggle.md) - Quick answer: Grooming often becomes stressful because dogs are asked to tolerate brushing, nail trims, ear cleaning, or handling before they understand what is happening. Cooperative care teaches dogs to participate through clear start signals, respected stop signals, short practice sessions, and…
- [For dog trainers who know the basics but want better plans, better follow-through, and better results](https://www.traincanine.com/dog-training-201-course.md) - Dog Training 201 is for dog trainers who know the basics but want better plans, better follow-through, and better client results. ➡️The Spring 2026 course has ended. The course is expected to be offered again in Fall 2026, and dates will be announced soon. Join the interest list for the next Dog Tr…
- [Pack walks: Helpful socialization tool or disaster in the making?](https://www.traincanine.com/pack-walks-helpful-socialization-tool-or-disaster.md) - Dog lovers are debating whether pack walks (group walks led by a trainer or handler with multiple dogs) are genuinely useful for socialization or just visually impressive. Scroll through social media and you’ll see beautifully behaved groups of happy dogs with their handlers, out on an adventure. I…
- [When training isn’t enough: The skill gap most dog professionals eventually face](https://www.traincanine.com/when-training-isnt-enough-the-skill-gap-most-dog-professionals-eventually-face.md) - Updated June 26, 2026 If your usual training plans stop working, the issue may not be your skill as a trainer. Some cases require behavior consulting skills: identifying the function of behavior, evaluating risk, understanding context, and building a systematic plan instead of relying on training t…
- [Puppy house-training checklist](https://www.traincanine.com/puppy-house-training-checklist.md) - A one-page checklist for spotting the pattern behind puppy potty accidents: timing, supervision, rewards, cleanup, confinement, and household consistency.
- [Dealing with difficult clients as a dog trainer: Tips for staying professional and setting boundaries](https://www.traincanine.com/dealing-with-difficult-dog-training-clients-tips-for-professionals.md)
- [My puppy keeps peeing indoors: What to do](https://www.traincanine.com/puppy-peeing-indoors-solutions-and-tips.md) - Puppy potty accidents are frustrating, but they usually mean the routine needs adjustment — not that your puppy is being stubborn. Here’s how to use timing, supervision, rewards, and realistic indoor management to make house training easier.
- [The one thing many trainers overlook when working with reactive dogs](https://www.traincanine.com/reactive-dog-training-course-teach-relaxation-skills.md) - What's the one thing trainers tend to overlook when working with reactive dogs and their people? 👉 Instilling relaxation early in the behavior modification plan! Many trainers focus on managing reactivity by addressing triggers head-on—but without teaching relaxation, your plans might be missing a…
- [Mastering reactivity: Strategies to help you confidently tackle challenging cases](https://www.traincanine.com/reactive-dog-training-strategies-for-professionals.md) - Learn how to confidently handle reactive dogs with proven techniques and tools.
- [Gentle puppy ear cleaning: A comprehensive guide for beginners](https://www.traincanine.com/gentle-puppy-ear-cleaning-comprehensive-guide.md) - Start your puppy’s grooming journey with confidence! This easy, step-by-step guide shows you how to make ear cleaning a positive experience using gentle, reward-based steps. By building trust and comfort with every touch, you’ll set your puppy up for a lifetime of stress-free grooming.
- [Walking circles in your yard? How to avoid common potty training pitfalls](https://www.traincanine.com/walking-circles-in-your-yard-how-to-avoid-common-potty-training-pitfalls-2.md) - Updated June 9, 2026 It's a chilly morning, you've thrown a coat over your PJs, and you’re pacing around the yard, coaxing your puppy to do their business. You try every trick in the book—making silly noises, walking laps, or repeating “Go potty!” in an increasingly chipper tone. Eventually, your p…
- [My puppy is biting too hard - What should I do?](https://www.traincanine.com/puppy-is-biting.md) - Puppy biting can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and even injurious if not managed early. Here’s a short guide to understanding why puppies bite, what’s normal, and how to guide your puppy toward gentler play.
- [Understanding the challenges of reactive dogs: Stress signals and environmental management](https://www.traincanine.com/managing-reactive-dogs-stress-signs-environment.md) - Dealing with a reactive dog can feel overwhelming. Reactivity in dogs, often misunderstood, refers to an exaggerated response to certain things—be it other dogs, people, or unfamiliar environments.
- [Taming the beast: How to start desensitizing your dog to the vacuum](https://www.traincanine.com/desensitize-dog-vacuum-guide.md) - Discover effective steps to desensitize your dog to the vacuum cleaner with our easy-to-follow guide. Start turning your pet’s panic into calm!
- [Functional communication on walks: A game-changer for reactive dogs](https://www.traincanine.com/reactive-dog-functional-communication-training.md) - Transform your walks in the park with our guide to Functional Communication Training for reactive dogs. Discover techniques to manage lunging and barking, and turn stressful outings into enjoyable experiences.
- [How to Calm a Puppy That Gets Too Excited Around Other Dogs](https://www.traincanine.com/my-puppy-gets-too-excited-around-other-dogs.md) - Barking, pulling, and frantic play do not always mean the same thing. Learn what to watch for and how to give your puppy a safer, easier next interaction.
- [Puppy training: Mastering the fold-back down](https://www.traincanine.com/teach-puppy-fold-back-down.md) - Master teaching your puppy the fold-back down with our easy step-by-step guide for puppy owners and trainers.
- [Overcoming dog-dog reactivity: The LIMA way (Plus, an ethics update)](https://www.traincanine.com/overcoming-dog-dog-reactivity-the-lima-way.md) - Read the story of Vanessa and her rescue pup, Lily, and how they overcame Lily's reactivity with the help of a LIMA-based training plan.
- [Understanding canine reactivity: Causes, triggers, and behavior patterns](https://www.traincanine.com/understanding-canine-reactivity.md) - 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.
- [Become a confident in-home dog trainer: Free guide on how I conduct in-home training sessions](https://www.traincanine.com/professional-dog-trainer-in-home-success-guide.md) - 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.
- [Keep an eye on emotions to ease your dog's learning curve](https://www.traincanine.com/emotions-in-dog-training-empathy-body-language.md) - Dog trainers can incorporate breaks and use a dog's body language to read emotions and improve communication and training effectiveness.
- [Keeping your home-alone dog entertained](https://www.traincanine.com/keeping-your-home-alone-dog-entertained.md) - 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.
- [Why dog training clients don’t follow through (and what to do about it)](https://www.traincanine.com/simple-tricks-to-help-dog-training-clients-succeed.md) - Updated April 2026 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 clien…
- [The tail-wagging toolkit: Essential reads for every dog trainer](https://www.traincanine.com/the-tail-wagging-toolkit-essential-reads-for-every-dog-trainer.md) - 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!
- [Problems with your dog's recall?](https://www.traincanine.com/problems-with-your-dogs-recall.md) - 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.
- [Make sure your dog focuses anywhere you go + PDF handout](https://www.traincanine.com/making-sure-your-dog-focuses-anywhere-you-go-a-how-to.md)
- [What professional dog trainers know about using treats](https://www.traincanine.com/what-pro-dog-trainers-know-about-using-treats.md) - 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.
- [How to get your dog's attention fast: Teach an interruptor cue](https://www.traincanine.com/interruption-cue.md) - 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 a nea…
- [Why your dog only listens when you have food](https://www.traincanine.com/why-your-dog-only-listens-when-you-have-food.md) - 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](https://www.traincanine.com/7-reasons-your-puppy-is-acting-like-a-monster.md) - 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 it coincides with her usual mealtimes. 2. She’s tir…
- [The No. 1 mistake people make when teaching their dogs to come when called](https://www.traincanine.com/mistakes-training-recall.md) - One of the best things about having a dog is being able to take them for walks and adventures. But sometimes, no matter how much you call their name, your pup just doesn't come.
- [How to get your dog to pay attention to you outside](https://www.traincanine.com/how-to-get-your-dog-to-pay-attention-to-you-outside.md) - 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 your dog to pay attent…
- [What is the ABA model of behavior change?](https://www.traincanine.com/what-is-the-aba-model-of-behavior-change.md) - 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.
- [Case study: The terrier terror + PDF handout](https://www.traincanine.com/case-study-the-terrier-terror.md)
- [How to tell if your dog is relaxed: Body language and signs](https://www.traincanine.com/how-to-tell-if-your-dog-is-relaxed-body-language-and-signs.md) - A relaxed dog is more than a wagging tail or sleepy face. Learn how to read your dog’s whole body, notice stress signals, and make better training choices.
- [Teach your dog to focus on you](https://www.traincanine.com/teach-your-dog-to-focus-on-you.md) - 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 take some ti…
- [How To Become A Dog Trainer](https://www.traincanine.com/how-to-become-a-dog-trainer.md) - So you want to be a dog trainer? Get the right skills and knowledge to succeed as a professional trainer.
- [Case study: The mouthy puppy + PDF handout](https://www.traincanine.com/case-study-the-mouthy-puppy-pdf-handout.md)
- [What’s the key to good dog training?](https://www.traincanine.com/whats-the-key-to-good-dog-training.md) - Dog training is a skill. To be a good dog trainer, you must combine your mechanical skills with your knowledge of dogs and people. If you want to become a successful dog trainer and help resolve behavior problems, start by developing the following skills and attributes.
- [Management for reactive dogs: How to keep your dog safe and under control on walks](https://www.traincanine.com/management-for-reactive-dogs-how-to-keep-your-dog-safe-and-under-control-on-walks.md) - 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.
- [Is dog cloning going viral?](https://www.traincanine.com/dog-cloning-viral.md) - If you've lost a dog, you know the feeling. Who among us doesn't want their dog back?
- [Is my dog stressed? Spot the signs of stress in dogs](https://www.traincanine.com/is-my-dog-stressed-spot-the-signs-of-stress-in-dogs.md) - 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.
- [Wait at Door](https://www.traincanine.com/wait-at-door.md) - 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?
- [Your puppy's first night home: How to make it a success](https://www.traincanine.com/your-puppys-first-night-home.md) - 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.
- [Qualities you need to become a good therapy dog trainer](https://www.traincanine.com/qualities-you-need-to-become-a-good-therapy-dog-trainer.md) - 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 dog trainer. There are ma…
- [Puppy biting: How to stop it from happening](https://www.traincanine.com/puppy-biting-how-to-stop-it-from-happening.md) - 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.
- [10 ideas for what to do with your puppy while you're at work](https://www.traincanine.com/10-ideas-for-what-to-do-with-your-puppy-while-youre-at-work.md) - Leaving your puppy while you go to work can feel stressful, especially when you’re trying to balance potty breaks, safe confinement, sleep, and your daily demands. Learn how to plan your puppy’s day around sleep, potty breaks, safe confinement, chewing, enrichment, and human support.
- [Protecting your dog from unwanted encounters: A guide to safe and stress-free walks](https://www.traincanine.com/protect-your-dog-from-attacks-on-walks.md) - Walks with your dog can go from calm to chaotic fast—especially if a loose dog appears. With smart prep, calm leash handling, and simple tools, you can stay safe and enjoy every outing.
- [What qualifications do you need to become a protection dog trainer?](https://www.traincanine.com/what-qualifications-do-you-need-to-become-a-protection-dog-trainer.md) - As the name implies, protection dogs are dogs that are trained to guard people and property. Common breeds used in protection work include German shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, Dutch shepherds, Malinois, and mastiffs. Anybody who has ever seen a protection dog at work can attest to how…
- [Teach your dog to target your hand + PDF handout](https://www.traincanine.com/hand-targeting-handout.md)
- [Dog trainer regulation: Where are we now?](https://www.traincanine.com/dog-trainer-regulation.md)
- [Help, my puppy has separation anxiety](https://www.traincanine.com/puppy-has-separation-anxiety.md) - Learn how to prevent puppy separation anxiety and teach puppies to stay home alone.
- [How to train a therapy dog](https://www.traincanine.com/how-to-train-a-therapy-dog.md)
- [Basic Manners](https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners.md) - Stop jumping up, pulling on leash, running away and more. In this training plan [https://www.traincanine.com/basic-manners-curriculum/], you’ll go step-by-step with a certified dog behavior consultant to improve your dog’s behavior. Whatever behavior problem your dog is experiencing, you can improv…
- [How to use marker training to teach your dog at a distance](https://www.traincanine.com/marker-training-teach-distance.md)
- [Are puppy classes a good idea? Find out if you're teaching what puppies need to know](https://www.traincanine.com/puppy-classes-good-idea.md)
- [Why evaluate shelter dogs before adoption?](https://www.traincanine.com/why-temperament-test-shelter-dogs.md)
- [5 reasons you do NOT want to become a dog trainer](https://www.traincanine.com/5-reasons-you-dont-want-to-become-a-dog-trainer.md) - ‘Of course I want to become a dog trainer!’ Do you love dogs? Do you dream of working with dogs professionally? To become a dog trainer, you need to be a proficient trainer and enjoy working with dogs. But there are a few qualities that can disqualify you. Read on to see if your passion extends to…
- [10 must-read books on teaching](https://www.traincanine.com/10-must-read-books-on-teaching.md)
- [Back to the basics: Why does remedial training work?](https://www.traincanine.com/back-to-basics.md)
- [Chat with dog trainer Valerie Pollard](https://www.traincanine.com/dog-trainer-val-pollard.md) - In this 15-minute chat, we talk with longtime dog trainer Valerie Pollard about the dawn of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers [http://www.apdt.com], why trainers should be excited about certification with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants [http://iaabc.org], an…
- [Becoming a dog trainer](https://www.traincanine.com/becoming-dog-trainer.md) - Updated June 10, 2026 Thinking about becoming a professional dog trainer? Dog training can be rewarding work, but it is not only about loving dogs. Professional trainers teach people, read behavior, write clear plans, adjust when progress stalls, and keep learning as the field changes. This guide i…
- [Teaching dog-dog greetings in group classes: Yes or no?](https://www.traincanine.com/teaching-dog-dog-greetings-group-classes.md)
- [What certification do I need to be a professional dog trainer?](https://www.traincanine.com/what-certification-do-i-need-to-be-a-professional-dog-trainer.md) - In the United States, there are no formal requirements to become a dog trainer. Dog training schools and organizations have surged in popularity in recent years. Certification for trainers, however, is still new. So, why get certified? Benefits of certification The obvious perk being a certified do…
- [Three-step weave poles](https://www.traincanine.com/teach-weave-poles-three-steps.md) - Here’s a look at my non-patented weave pole training technique. If your dog can jump on cue, you can teach the basics of weave poles in a week or so.
- [Should a couple expecting a baby adopt a 'mouthy' dog?](https://www.traincanine.com/couple-expecting-baby-adopt-mouthy-dog.md) - Q: I have an energetic foster dog who is lots of fun — even with a few bad habits. One of those habits is that he will jump up and nip at people — in play — if they run. He is what most would call “mouthy.” (He will also “mouth” my hands when he wants to coerce me to play with him — I know enough n…

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