Today, I want to talk about one of the most valuable skills you can teach your dog: how to relax on command. A calm dog is a happy dog. Knowing how to calm your furry friend can be a game-changer. It helps in many situations, from vet visits to noisy family gatherings. Let’s dive into the steps to teach your dog this essential skill. Why Teach Relaxation?Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why. Teaching your dog to relax on command isn’t just about having a calm pet; it’s about enhancing their quality of life. A dog that can relax on cue is less stressed, less anxious, and more adaptable to new situations. It’s like having a personal off-switch for your dog’s nervous energy. Step 1: Creating a Calm EnvironmentImagine trying to meditate in the middle of a rock concert. Not easy, right? The same goes for your dog. Start by creating a calm, quiet environment for training. Choose a spot in your home where your dog feels safe and comfortable, away from distractions. Max, a lively Golden Retriever, had a hard time winding down. His owners were John and Lisa. They struggled with his boundless energy, especially at family dinners. We created a “calm corner” for Max—a cozy spot with his favorite blanket and a few toys. This corner became his sanctuary, a place where he could start learning to relax. Step 2: Use a Cue WordChoose a simple cue word or phrase, like “relax” or “settle.” Consistency is key, so use the same word every time. Your dog will start associating this word with the act of calming down. Think of your cue word as a magic spell. Just like "Abracadabra" makes things happen in fairy tales. Your cue word will signal your dog to relax. Step 3: Teach a Relaxing PositionA comfortable position is crucial for relaxation. The most common position is lying down. If your dog doesn’t know how to lie down on command, start with this basic training.
Step 4: Pair the Cue with the PositionNow that your dog is familiar with the relaxation position, it’s time to pair it with the cue word.
Step 5: Extend the DurationYour dog might initially only stay relaxed for a few seconds. Gradually increase the duration by rewarding your dog for staying calm longer. Think of this like building stamina for a marathon. You wouldn’t run 26 miles on your first day of training. Start small and gradually increase the challenge. Step 6: Add DistractionsOnce your dog can relax in a calm environment, it’s time to introduce distractions. Start small and gradually increase the difficulty.
Step 7: Practice RegularlyConsistency is key. Practice the relaxation command daily, and incorporate it into your routine. Use it before meals, during quiet time, or whenever your dog needs to calm down. Bella, a high-energy Border Collie, lived in a bustling household with three kids. Her owners, Mark and Jenna, found it challenging to keep her calm. She practiced the relax command daily. This taught Bella to calm down in chaos. Now, family dinners are peaceful, and Bella’s stress levels have significantly decreased. Troubleshooting Common Issues Issue: My Dog Won’t Stay Relaxed If your dog struggles to stay relaxed, make sure you’re not progressing too quickly. Go back to the basics and gradually increase the difficulty. Issue: My Dog Gets Up When I Move If your dog gets up when you move, practice moving around while your dog is in the relaxed position. Start with small movements and gradually increase the distance. Issue: My Dog Ignores the Cue If your dog ignores the cue, reinforce the association between the cue and the position. Use high-value treats and ensure you’re practicing in a distraction-free environment. The Benefits of a Relaxed Dog
Final ThoughtsTeaching your dog to relax on command is a valuable skill. It improves their life and your relationship with them. You can help your dog learn to relax. Do this by creating a calm place. Use a consistent cue word. Practice regularly. Remember, patience and consistency are key. With time and practice, your dog will learn to relax. This will lead to a happier, healthier life.
If you need additional guidance or support, Clever Canine Dog Training is here to help. Together, we can make training a positive and rewarding experience for both you and your dog. Happy training! Mandy Majchrzak Owner and Head Trainer Clever Canine Dog Training
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Hello, dog lovers! Mandy Majchrzak here, owner and head trainer at Clever Canine Dog Training. Today, I want to talk about something we all face. We all lose motivation when training our dogs. It's easy to get discouraged when progress is slow or setbacks happen. But, I’m here to share tips and stories to help you stay motivated and on track. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the DestinationTraining a dog is a journey, not a destination. Think of it like a road trip. When you’re driving to a new place, you don’t expect to get there immediately. You prepare for stops, detours, and the unexpected. The same goes for training your dog. Let me share a story about Daisy, a spirited Golden Retriever with a penchant for digging. Her owner, Sarah, was at her wit’s end. Every time she let Daisy in the yard, Daisy would dig up the flower beds, leaving a trail of destruction. Sarah tried various methods to curb the behavior, but nothing seemed to work. Sarah’s frustration grew, and she considered giving up on training altogether. But instead of focusing solely on the end goal—stopping the digging—I encouraged her to embrace the small victories. We celebrated every time Daisy paused mid-dig when called or showed interest in a toy instead of a hole. By focusing on these incremental wins, Sarah stayed motivated and eventually, Daisy’s digging became a thing of the past. Set Realistic Goals and Celebrate Small Wins One of the biggest motivation killers is setting unrealistic expectations. If you expect your dog to master a new behavior overnight, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Instead, set small, achievable goals and celebrate each success. Think of training as completing a puzzle. Each piece represents a small goal. Alone, a single piece might not seem significant, but as you put more pieces together, the picture becomes clearer. Celebrate fitting each piece into place, knowing it’s bringing you closer to the complete image. Stay Consistent and PatientConsistency is key in dog training. Dogs thrive on routine and clear communication. But, being consistent is hard. This is especially true when life gets busy or progress is slow. Max, a lovable Labrador, struggled with following commands. His owner, John, was frustrated because Max seemed to ignore him half the time. When we dug deeper, we discovered that John wasn’t always consistent with his commands. Sometimes he’d say “sit,” other times “sit down,” and occasionally just “down.” We worked on standardizing John’s commands and reinforcing them consistently. It took time and patience. But, once John became consistent, Max started responding reliably. The key was patience. John learned that even when progress was slow, sticking to the plan was crucial. Be PositivePositive reinforcement is one of the most effective tools in dog training. Reward good behaviors with treats, praise, or play. This keeps training fun. It also motivates your dog to keep trying. Imagine you’re at work and your boss gives you a bonus every time you complete a task well. You’d be motivated to keep doing your best, right? Dogs are the same. They're more likely to repeat good behaviors. Why? Because they know that good behavior leads to good outcomes. Take Breaks and Keep Training Sessions ShortLong, tedious training sessions can lead to burnout for both you and your dog. Instead, keep sessions short and fun. If you or your dog are having an off day, it’s okay to take a break and try again later. Bella, a high-energy Border Collie, struggled with focus. Her owner, Mike, initially tried long training sessions to tire her out. But, Bella would lose interest quickly. We switched to 5-minute sessions throughout the day, focusing on one skill at a time. This approach worked wonders. Bella remained engaged. Mike saw more progress in short bursts than he ever did in long sessions. Surround Yourself with SupportTraining can feel isolating, especially when you’re facing challenges. Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can make a world of difference. Join a training class, find a local dog group, or connect with other dog owners online. Emily, a new dog owner, was overwhelmed with training her reactive dog, Luna. She joined one of our group classes. She connected with other dog owners. They faced similar issues. The class gave her support and camaraderie. They kept her motivated. Luna's behavior got much better. Knowing she wasn’t alone made all the difference. Stay Positive and Focus on the BondAt the end of the day, remember why you started training your dog in the first place. Training is about building a stronger bond with your furry friend. Focus on the positive moments and the joy that comes from seeing your dog learn and grow. Jake adopted a rescue dog named Rocky, who was fearful of almost everything. Progress was slow, and there were days when Jake felt disheartened. But he focused on the moments when Rocky would snuggle close or wag his tail. By cherishing these moments, Jake stayed motivated. Over time, Rocky’s confidence grew, and so did their bond. Final ThoughtsTraining your dog can be challenging, but staying motivated is key to success. Embrace the journey. Set realistic goals. Celebrate small wins. Stay consistent. Use positive reinforcement. Take breaks, seek support, and always focus on the bond you’re building with your dog.
Remember, every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. If you need support or guidance, Clever Canine Dog Training is here to help. Together, we can make training a positive and rewarding experience for both you and your dog. Happy training! Mandy Majchrzak Owner and Head Trainer Clever Canine Dog Training Today, I want to delve into a topic that resonates deeply with many dog owners—reactivity. Many have had a dog that barks, lunges, or loses their cool. It happens around other dogs, people, or new things. Reactivity is common. But, learning its causes and how to manage it can change your relationship with your dog. What is Reactivity?Reactivity is essentially an overreaction to certain stimuli. Imagine you’re walking down the street and suddenly, a fire truck blares its siren right next to you. Your heart races, you might jump or shout—this is a normal reaction to a sudden, loud noise. Now, imagine if you reacted that way every time you saw a bicycle, a jogger, or even a squirrel. That’s what life can be like for a reactive dog. Their world is full of fire trucks, and it’s our job to help them navigate it calmly. The Causes of ReactivityReactivity can stem from a variety of sources. Some dogs are naturally more sensitive. Others may develop reactivity due to past experiences. Let me share a story about a sweet dog named Max who came to our training facility. Max was a lovable rescue with a heart of gold, but he had a rough start in life. His old owners didn't socialize him right. He had a few scary encounters with other dogs. As a result, Max would bark and lunge whenever he saw another dog. His new owner, Jennifer, was at her wit’s end. She loved Max dearly but didn't know how to help him. Max's reactivity was rooted in fear and uncertainty. He had learned that other dogs were to be wary of. His way of handling that fear was to put on a big, scary show to keep them away. Managing Reactivity: The Road to Recovery The first step in managing reactivity is understanding this. Reactivity is not about dominance or stubbornness. Reactivity is often a sign of fear or frustration. Our goal is to change the way our dogs feel about their triggers. Step 1: Identify Triggers The first thing we did with Max was identify his triggers. For Max, it was other dogs, especially those that were off-leash and unpredictable. By understanding what set Max off, we could start working on a plan to change his response. Step 2: Create a Safe Space Dogs need to feel safe to learn new behaviors. We created a safe space for Max where he could observe other dogs at a distance where he felt comfortable. Think of it like dipping your toes in the water before jumping into the pool. We started with Max at a distance where he could see other dogs but not react. Step 3: Positive Associations We wanted Max to associate other dogs with good things. Every time he saw a dog and remained calm, he got a tasty treat. This is classical conditioning at its best. Like Pavlov’s dogs, Max learned to link other dogs with treats and praise. Step 4: Gradual Exposure Slowly, we decreased the distance between Max and other dogs. This is called desensitization. It’s crucial to go at the dog’s pace—too fast, and you risk overwhelming them. With Max, we took baby steps, ensuring each encounter was positive and controlled. Real-Life ApplicationsJennifer was diligent with Max’s training. She practiced every day, gradually increasing the difficulty of their training sessions. It wasn’t long before Max could walk past other dogs with just a glance, rather than a full-blown meltdown. Jennifer once told me it felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She could walk with Max again. She would not have to worry about meeting another dog. Max was happier too, as he no longer felt the need to defend himself against every canine he saw. Tools and TechniquesHere are some practical tools and techniques that can help manage reactivity:
The Importance of Patience and ConsistencyManaging reactivity is not a quick fix. It requires patience, consistency, and a lot of positive reinforcement. It’s like planting a garden—you have to tend to it regularly, give it time to grow, and eventually, you’ll see beautiful results. A Final WordIf you’re dealing with a reactive dog, remember that you’re not alone. At Clever Canine Dog Training, we’re here to help you and your furry friend navigate this journey together. Reactivity can be managed, and with the right approach, your dog can learn to handle their triggers calmly.
Max is a shining example of how effective and rewarding this process can be. Jennifer’s dedication and Max’s progress remind us that every dog has the potential to improve, and every owner has the ability to make a positive difference in their dog’s life. Thank you for reading, and if you have any questions or need assistance with your dog’s reactivity, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can turn those fire trucks into gentle breezes and help your dog enjoy a peaceful, happy life. Until next time, happy training! Mandy Majchrzak Owner and Head Trainer Clever Canine Dog Training Today, I’m excited to share some valuable tips. They address a common challenge many of us face: teaching our dogs to stay calm around other dogs. This skill makes walks better. It also improves your dog’s social interactions and behavior. Let’s dive into the world of calm canine encounters! The ChallengeYou’re out for a serene walk with your dog. The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and everything seems perfect. Suddenly, another dog appears in the distance. Your dog's ears perk up, his body tenses, and before you know it, they're barking and pulling on the leash. Your peaceful walk has turned into a chaotic struggle. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many dog owners have this problem. But, the good news is that with patience and training, we can teach our dogs to stay calm around other dogs. Understanding the BehaviorDogs are social animals, and it’s natural for them to feel excited or anxious when they see another dog. However, this excitement or anxiety can lead to unwanted behaviors. These include barking, lunging, and even aggression. To help our dogs stay calm, we need to understand what’s driving their behavior and work on managing it. The Importance of Calm InteractionsTeaching your dog to stay calm around other dogs has numerous benefits. It makes walks safer and more fun. It reduces stress for you and your dog. And, it makes social interactions better. A calm dog is a joy to walk and socialize with. Training can greatly strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. Start with the BasicsFirst, we must cover the basics. You need a good foundation in obedience training. Commands like “sit,” “stay,” “leave it,” and “watch me” are key tools. They are for managing your dog’s behavior around other dogs. If your dog hasn’t mastered these commands yet, start there. Consistent training sessions use rewards. They will lay the groundwork for more advanced changes. Step-by-Step Guide to Calm InteractionsStep 1: Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning Desensitization involves slowly exposing your dog to the trigger. In this case, the trigger is other dogs. You expose them at a distance where they can stay calm. Counter-conditioning pairs this exposure with something good. It might be treats or praise. This process changes your dog’s emotional response. Example: Take your dog to a quiet park where there are few dogs. Start at a distance where he notices other dogs but doesn’t react. Reward him with treats and praise for staying calm. Gradually decrease the distance over several sessions, always rewarding calm behavior. Step 2: Teaching “Watch Me” “Watch me” is a command that focuses your dog’s attention on you instead of the trigger. It’s particularly useful when you see another dog approaching and need to keep your dog calm. Example: Hold a treat close to your face and say, “Watch me.” When your dog makes eye contact, reward them with the treat. Practice this command in many places. Gradually add distractions, like distant dogs. Step 3: Controlled Exposure Controlled exposure involves practicing calm interactions with other dogs in a controlled setting. This can be done with the help of a friend’s dog or at a training class. Example: Arrange a training session with a friend who has a calm dog. Keep both dogs on leashes and at a safe distance. Gradually decrease the distance while rewarding calm behavior. If either dog becomes too excited or anxious, increase the distance and try again. Step 4: Teaching “Leave It” "Leave it" is a key command. It helps manage your dog’s focus and stop bad interactions. It teaches your dog to ignore distractions, including other dogs. Example: Start with a treat in your hand. When your dog tries to sniff or grab it, say, “Leave it,” and close your hand. When he stops trying, reward him with a different treat. Practice this command with distractions. Gradually, include other dogs far away. Step 5: Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to encourage good behavior. When your dog remains calm around other dogs, reward them with treats, praise, or a favorite toy. The goal is to make calm behavior more rewarding than reacting to other dogs. Common Challenges and SolutionsChallenge: My Dog Gets Too Excited If your dog gets overly excited around other dogs, take a step back and reduce the level of exposure. Practice desensitization from a greater distance. Then, decrease it as your dog becomes more comfortable. Use high-value treats that your dog loves to keep their focus. Challenge: My Dog is Fearful or Aggressive If your dog is afraid of or aggressive towards other dogs, you must address the underlying emotional issues. Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to develop a tailored training plan. Avoid situations that trigger fear or aggression until your dog is more comfortable. Training your dog to stay calm around other dogs is like building a bridge. It starts with a solid foundation of trust and basic commands. Each training session adds another plank, gradually connecting both sides. Over time, the bridge becomes sturdy and reliable. It lets you and your dog cross from reactive to calm behavior. Final ThoughtsTraining your dog to stay calm around other dogs is a journey. It requires patience, consistency, and rewards. By understanding your dog’s behavior. You can manage their environment and practice desensitization. This will help your dog develop appropriate social behaviors. The rewards are worth the effort. They result in a well-behaved dog, relaxed walks, and a closer bond with your furry friend.
At Clever Canine Dog Training, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior or need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can transform your dog into a calm and well-mannered companion. Happy training! Mandy Majchrzak Owner and Head Trainer Clever Canine Dog Training Today, I want to talk about a tough topic for our dogs. It's also heart-wrenching for us as owners: separation anxiety. Many of us know the pain of leaving our furry friends at home. We return home to find chewed-up furniture. Neighbors complain about barking. The dog is emotionally worn out. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. You're not alone. There are effective ways to help your dog feel more comfortable when you’re away. Understanding Separation AnxietySeparation anxiety is a condition in which a dog experiences extreme distress when left alone. It's more than just whining or mischief. Dogs with separation anxiety can become destructive, noisy, and try to escape. Understanding why dogs develop this condition is the first step in addressing it. Dogs are pack animals, and they thrive on social bonds. An overly attached dog may feel abandoned when left alone. This triggers panic. The panic can lead to behaviors like chewing furniture and scratching doors. Dogs may bark and howl, and even urinate or defecate indoors. The Importance of Addressing Separation AnxietyAddressing separation anxiety is crucial. It is key for your dog's well-being and for your peace of mind. A dog with separation anxiety is not just an inconvenience. They're in genuine distress. Also, this problem can strain the human-dog bond. It can cause property damage and even lead to rehoming if not managed well. Start with the Basics Before getting into specific techniques, you must build trust and security. Ensure your dog has a safe, comfortable space where they feel secure. This could be a crate, a specific room, or a cozy corner with their favorite bed and toys. Consistent routines also help dogs feel more secure. Step-by-Step Guide to Addressing Separation AnxietyStep 1: Gradual Desensitization Gradual desensitization involves slowly getting your dog used to being alone. Start with very short absences. Then, increase the time as your dog gets more comfortable. Example: Begin by leaving your dog alone for just a few minutes. Praise and reward them if they remain calm. Slowly extend the duration of your absences over days or weeks. The goal is to make leaving and returning a non-event. Step 2: Practice Short Departures and Returns Practicing short departures and returns helps your dog learn. It shows that you always come back. This reduces their anxiety about being left alone. Example: Leave your dog for a few seconds, then return and greet them calmly. Repeat this several times a day, gradually increasing the time you’re away. Make sure your departures and arrivals are low-key to avoid heightening their anxiety. Step 3: Create Positive Associations Make leaving a good thing for your dog. Give them a treat when you go. This could be a special treat or a favorite toy that they only get when you’re not around. Example: Use a treat-dispensing toy filled with peanut butter or kibble. Give this to your dog right before you leave. This distraction can keep them busy. It can create a good association with your departure. Step 4: Avoid Emotional Departures and Arrivals It’s natural to want to shower your dog with love before leaving and when you return. However, making a big fuss can increase their anxiety. Instead, keep departures and arrivals calm and low-key. Before leaving, pat your dog and say "goodbye" calmly. Then, leave without more interaction. When you return, wait a few minutes before greeting your dog, and do so in a calm manner. Step 5: Use Calming Aids There are various calming aids available that can help reduce your dog’s anxiety. These include pheromone diffusers, calming collars, and supplements. While these are not a cure, they can be a helpful addition to your training efforts. A pheromone diffuser releases calming scents. The scents mimic those made by nursing mother dogs. These can help create a more relaxed environment for your dog. Step 6: Engage in Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation A tired dog is a calm dog. Making sure your dog gets lots of exercise and mental stimulation can reduce anxiety. Engage in regular play sessions, walks, and training exercises. Example: Take your dog for a brisk walk or play a game of fetch before you leave. Puzzle toys and interactive games can also keep their mind engaged while you’re away. Common Challenges and SolutionsChallenge: My Dog Panics as Soon as I Leave If your dog panics right away when you leave, you may need to break down desensitization even more. Start with leaving the room for just a few seconds and gradually build up from there. Challenge: My Dog is Destructive When Left Alone If your dog is destructive when left alone, put them in a safe space. They cannot harm themselves or your things. Crate training can be beneficial if your dog sees the crate as a safe, comfortable space. A Personal Success StoryLet me share a success story from Clever Canine Dog Training. Emily is a teacher. Her Border Collie, Charlie, has severe separation anxiety. She came to us about it. Every time Emily left the house, Charlie would bark nonstop. He would also chew on furniture and try to escape. Emily was at her wit’s end, worried about Charlie’s well-being and the impact on her neighbors. We started with gradual desensitization. We practiced short departures and made Emily's absences have good associations. Emily also used calming aids, like a pheromone diffuser. She also gave Charlie plenty of exercise before leaving. One day, Emily had to leave for an unexpected appointment. She was gone for two hours. When she returned, she found Charlie calmly chewing on his treat-dispensing toy. The house was intact. Emily was overjoyed and relieved. Charlie’s progress continued. Now, he can stay calm for long absences. Building a FortressThink of addressing separation anxiety like building a fortress for your dog. It starts with a strong foundation of trust and security. Each training session adds a layer of protection. They gradually make the fortress more secure. Over time, your dog feels safe and cozy. They know that their fortress (your home) is a secure place, even when you’re not around. Final ThoughtsAddressing separation anxiety requires patience, consistency, and understanding. You can help your dog feel more secure and reduce their anxiety. Do this by gradually getting them used to your absences. Create positive links. Also, keep a calm environment. At Clever Canine Dog Training, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If your dog has separation anxiety or you need personalized help, reach out. Together, we can help your dog become a calm and confident companion. Happy training!
Mandy Majchrzak Owner and Head Trainer Clever Canine Dog Training Hi there, dog lovers! Mandy Majchrzak here, owner and head trainer at Clever Canine Dog Training. Today, I want to tackle a common challenge many of us face: teaching our furry friends to greet people calmly. The ProblemPicture this: You have friends coming over for a dinner party. You’ve set the table, prepared a delicious meal, and are looking forward to a fun evening. Suddenly, the doorbell rings. Your usually lovable dog turns into a jumping, barking whirlwind. Your friends barely make it through the door. Then, your dog's enthusiastic greeting overwhelms them. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many dog owners struggle with this issue. The good news is that, with patience and training, we can teach our dogs to greet people calmly. Understanding the BehaviorDogs greet with excitement because they’re social animals. For them, a new person is an exciting event. They jump, bark, and wag their tails because they’re happy to see someone new. However, this behavior can be overwhelming and even frightening for some people. As dog owners, it’s our job to help our dogs learn appropriate ways to express their excitement. The Importance of Calm GreetingsTeaching your dog to greet people calmly has several benefits. It keeps your guests safe and comfortable. It reduces stress for your dog. And it makes social interactions more fun for everyone. A calm dog is a joy to be around, and the training process can strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Start with the BasicsBefore we dive into the specific steps, it’s essential to have some basic obedience training in place. Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “down” are crucial for managing your dog’s behavior. If your dog hasn’t mastered these commands yet, start there. Regular training sessions with rewards will set the stage. They will lead to more advanced behavior changes. Step-by-Step Guide to Calm GreetingsStep 1: Managing the Environment Until your dog greets people calmly, you must manage the environment to stop bad behavior. Use a leash or baby gate to control your dog’s access to the door. This prevents your dog from rushing the door and jumping on guests. It’s not a permanent solution but a temporary management tool while you work on training. Step 2: Teaching the “Sit” Command “Sit” is a fundamental command that will be your best friend in this training process. Practice “sit” in a calm environment without distractions. Reward your dog with treats and praise for sitting calmly. Raise the level of distraction gradually. Do this by practicing in different rooms and, finally, near the door. Step 3: Practicing with Controlled Greetings Once your dog reliably sits on command, it’s time to practice greetings. Enlist the help of a friend or family member. Have them ring the doorbell or knock, but instruct them to ignore your dog initially. Ask your dog to “sit” before opening the door. If your dog stays seated, reward them with a treat and calm praise. If they get up, close the door and try again. Repeat this process. Do it until your dog learns that sitting calmly brings rewards. Step 4: Gradual Exposure Training your dog to greet people calmly takes time and consistency. Raise the excitement level gradually. Have different people come to the door. Vary the level of distraction. Practice during different times of the day and in various scenarios. Remember, consistency is key. Step 5: Reinforcing Good Behavior Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to encourage good behavior. When your dog greets someone calmly, reward them with treats, praise, or a favorite toy. The goal is to make calm greetings more rewarding than jumping and barking. Over time, your dog will associate calm behavior with positive outcomes. Common Challenges and SolutionsChallenge: My Dog Gets Too Excited If your dog gets overly excited during greetings, take a step back and reduce the level of excitement. Practice “sit” in a calm environment and gradually introduce distractions. Use high-value treats that your dog loves to keep their focus. Challenge: My Dog Doesn’t Respond to Commands If your dog struggles to follow commands, be sure you use positive reinforcement. Also, make sure you train consistently. Break training sessions into short, frequent sessions to keep your dog engaged. If necessary, seek help from a professional dog trainer to address specific issues. A Personal Success StoryLet me share a success story from Clever Canine Dog Training. Mary and her family came to us with their reactive Goldendoodle Teddy. Teddy was a bundle of energy and would jump on anyone who walked through the door. Mary felt embarrassed and stressed. This happened every time they had guests. We started with the basics, teaching Teddy to sit and stay. Mary and her family were consistent and patient, practicing every day. We then moved on to controlled greetings, using the steps outlined above. Teddy made steady progress, and soon, he was able to greet guests without jumping or barking. One evening, Mary hosted a family gathering. When the doorbell rang, Teddy sat calmly by the door, wagging his tail but staying seated. The guests entered, greeted Teddy, and everyone was impressed by his good behavior. Mary felt proud and relieved, knowing that their hard work had paid off. Teddy’s change improved their social interactions. It also strengthened their bond as a family. The Calm Before the StormTraining a dog to greet people calmly is like weathering a storm. Initially, the excitement is overwhelming, much like the chaos of a thunderstorm. But, with patience and training, the storm slowly calms. It gives way to a calm and peaceful time. Your dog learns to manage their excitement. It's like the sky clearing after a storm. It leaves a calm and fun atmosphere for everyone. Final ThoughtsTraining your dog to greet people calmly is a journey. It requires patience, consistency, and praise. You can help your dog develop good social behaviors. Do this by managing the environment, teaching basic commands, and practicing controlled greetings. The rewards are worth the effort. They create a good dog. They make interactions stress-free and strengthen your bond with your furry friend. At Clever Canine Dog Training, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior or need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can transform your dog into a calm and well-mannered companion. Happy training!
Mandy Majchrzak Owner and Head Trainer Clever Canine Dog Training Have you ever noticed that life’s inconveniences rarely happen at convenient times?
My schedule can get pretty tight and though I like to think I’m a flexible person, sometimes the curve balls that life throws at me can have me scrambling to rearrange my schedule. Let me tell you about one of those times this week. The other evening, I was about to head to bed after a long day when my son hobbled in the front door and collapsed on the sofa. His ankle was swelling rapidly. He had hurt himself playing basketball. The last thing I had time in my schedule for was a trip to urgent care, but as the night got later it was pretty obvious that an urgent care trip was necessary. The next day, I felt like I was moving pieces on a sliding puzzle when I was rearranging my schedule. Thankfully, my son only has a bad sprain, but he’s still on crutches and in a brace for the next couple of weeks. There are times in life that things are going to happen and there’s going to be nothing you can do about it. You will have to rearrange your schedule and make the best of the situation. It’s pretty much guaranteed that your life will have a lot of those moments if you have children and/ or dogs. But there are definitely things that you can do to lessen or prevent some of life’s inconveniences. Something we tell our clients often is that they should never wait to train something when they need it done. It’s always best to train a behavior when it doesn’t matter. Teach the dog, over and over, in places and times when you don’t need a behavior, so the dog knows the behavior when you do need it. Does your dog bolt out the door when you are ready to leave for work? Jump on company? Bark at other dogs? Refuse to come when called? Those aren’t the times to train your dog. The training needs to happen outside of those times. Don’t know how to do it? We can help! The first step is to schedule your free, no obligation evaluation. Click here to schedule your evaluation online now. You pick a day and time that works best for you. A trainer will meet with you and your dog (and anyone else that you would like involved in training) and go over some history, find out your training goals, and discuss training options. We can usually provide you with some free tips to help you start seeing immediate results. You can find out more about all our training options and get any questions you have answered. There is no pressure or obligation to buy anything. Here is the link to schedule your free evaluation: https://www.cleverk9mi.com/schedule-evaluation-session.html Happy Training I went to see Captain Marvel this week.
I loved it. The Marvel Universe has had me spellbound for a while. I love epic journeys, unlikely heroes, and fanciful stories of far off adventures. I always have. I can imagine myself in those places, traveling down unknown paths, overcoming insurmountable obstacles on my way to hidden treasures. But one way my imagination differs from those stories is that in my vision, I usually have a dog next to me. My adventures just seem more complete with a dog. Maybe that’s one of the reasons I’m a dog trainer. I’ve always believed that life is better with a dog. I also think that we owe our dogs a chance for a better life. I should clarify what I mean by a better life. By a better life, I don’t mean that I think dogs should get every fancy new toy that comes out on the market. That isn’t to say that buying toys for your dog is bad or wrong, but you just can’t buy love. I also don’t mean that you absolutely need to feed your dog the trendiest, most expensive food there is. That isn’t to say that proper nutrition is essential, and good dog food is too, but you don’t have to break your budget to feed your dog. What I do mean by giving your dog a better life is helping him to live a life in balance. It’s important for your dog to understand limits. Without proper limits, dogs can develop problems, and dogs that already have problems can develop serious issues like anxiety or aggression. A dog that lives a balanced life has more freedom to go on adventures with his owner because the dog isn’t held back by his own anxieties. A balanced dog can go more places because the owner can relax and trust that the dog will make good choices. Do you need help with your dog? Maybe stopping him from pulling you down the street when going for a walk or jumping on company every time someone comes to visit. Do you need help keeping your dog from getting into the trash all the time or stealing food off the counters or tables? Is his or her constant barking driving you crazy? Are you worried he is going to hurt someone or something? Let us show you how we can help you have a great dog. The first step is to schedule your free, no obligation evaluation. Click here to schedule your evaluation online now. You pick a day and time that works best for you. A trainer will meet with you and your dog (and anyone else that you would like involved in training) and go over some history, find out your training goals, and discuss training options. We can usually provide you with some free tips to help you start seeing immediate results. You can find out more about all our training options and get any questions you have answered. There is no pressure or obligation to buy anything. Here is the link to schedule your free evaluation: https://www.cleverk9mi.com/schedule-evaluation-session.html Happy Training! Nothing good happens after midnight.
That’s what they say. I don’t know who "they" are, but "they" were wrong this week. Let me tell you the story. My son, Joe, is on spring break. Apparently, it is still called spring break even when there is no evidence of spring, on the calendar or otherwise, but that’s a topic for another time. Joe gets home the old-fashioned way. He rides the train. His train was due in at 9 pm, but because of a signal malfunction in Chicago, Joe’s train was running late. So late that the train got stuck on a siding just outside of a station 13 miles away until sometime after 2 am. That’s OK, it gave me plenty of time to drive to and find this train station I was unfamiliar with. And do you know what? Picking my Joe up to spend a week at home is a good thing, even after midnight! Do you know what else? Another nice thing about being out after midnight is that there is hardly any traffic. Half the lights are flashing yellow, so you can just get where you want to go. That was great. There you have it, two good things that happened after midnight. But as I was driving and enjoying having the roads to myself, I started thinking about my clients who walk their dogs in the cover of night so they can avoid everyone else. I thought about all the people I have talked with that purposely avoid walking their dogs around other people or other dogs, and it made me sad, mainly because I know we can help them. I enjoy having the ability to choose to be out after midnight. I would hate only to be able to be out after midnight because that was my only option. Do you need help with your dog? Maybe stopping him from pulling you down the street when going for a walk or jumping on company every time someone comes to visit. Do you need help keeping your dog from getting into the trash all the time or stealing food off the counters or tables? Is his or her constant barking driving you crazy? Are you worried he is going to hurt someone or something? Let us show you how we can help you have a great dog. The first step is to schedule your free, no obligation evaluation. Click here to schedule your evaluation online now. You pick a day and time that works best for you. A trainer will meet with you and your dog (and anyone else that you would like involved in training) and go over some history, find out your training goals, and discuss training options. We can usually provide you with some free tips to help you start seeing immediate results. You can find out more about all our training options and get any questions you have answered. There is no pressure or obligation to buy anything. Here is the link to schedule your free evaluation: https://www.cleverk9mi.com/schedule-evaluation-session.html Happy Training! Oh, did I wake up to an interesting surprise this morning.
Let me tell you the story. But first, I’ll give you some back story. We have a lot of dogs in my family. I’m not going to say how many, but trust me, it’s a lot. My husband’s Golden Retriever is just a good dog. So much so that it’s kind of obnoxious. This dog just turned a year old and walks beautifully on a leash, knows to sit nicely to greet people, and is friendly with everyone he meets. This Golden boy likes to rest next to my husband while he works on the computer and during family meals. He obeys commands well even though my husband has not worked with him as often as he should. None of our other dogs are as easy as my husband’s dog. The rest of our dogs actually took work to train and keep trained. So last night, my husband and I were sitting at our table talking while the dogs rested on the floor all around us. We didn’t notice anything unusual. When it was bedtime, my husband went upstairs first with his dog. My husband turned out the light, and the dog jumped on the bed and waited there until I came up. That’s the routine. A short while later, I went to bed but didn’t turn on the lights, so I didn’t disturb my husband. When I woke this morning, the daylight revealed that my comforter had blue splotches all over it. I was so confused, the spots certainly weren’t there when I made the bed yesterday. Then I went downstairs, and what did I find? Blue pawprints! Everywhere. I followed the trail. The tracks covered one side of the house to the other. Apparently, once we dimmed the lights last evening, my husband’s sweet Golden boy chewed up a blue pen while he was laying at my husband’s feet. The pup was so quiet, we never noticed he was chewing something he wasn't supposed to have. It was dark, so we didn’t see the damage until this morning. We knew we had the culprit because the evidence was all over his paws. It's just one more reason we can't have nice things. The moral of this story is that different dogs need different things. Some dogs are easy to train, like my husband’s dog. Some dogs need a bit more training, like the rest of our dogs. But it’s always important to remember, dogs are dogs, and even the best dog will get into mischief now and then. Do you need help with your dog? Maybe stopping him from pulling so much on the leash when going for a walk or jumping on company every time someone comes to visit. Do you need help keeping your dog from getting into the trash all the time or stealing food off the counters or tables? Is his or her constant barking driving you crazy? Are you worried he is going to hurt someone or something? Let us show you how we can help you have a great dog. The first step is to schedule your free, no obligation evaluation. Click here to schedule your evaluation online now. You pick a day and time that works best for you. A trainer will meet with you and your dog (and anyone else that you would like involved in training) and go over some history, find out your training goals, and discuss training options. We can usually provide you with some free tips to help you start seeing immediate results. You can find out more about all our training options and get any questions you have answered. There is no pressure or obligation to buy anything. Here is the link to schedule your free evaluation: https://www.cleverk9mi.com/schedule-evaluation-session.html Happy Training! |