Doggy Dan Podcast Show

Walking your dog is a crucial part of raising and training them; thus, knowing the two types of dog walks can make a HUGE difference to your training experience. "Doggy Dan, is there more than just one way to do dog walks?" Yes… and my goal is to help dog owners tap into the power of switching walking styles to make the most out of dog walks. In this blog, I will talk about the two types of dog walks, why you need to know both, and how to know which type to use best. Read on to learn more. The Two Types of Dog Walks: Why You Need More Than Just One Type of Walk All walk and no play makes your dog a very irritable and restless pet. A common misconception among dog owners regarding walking dogs is that there's only one walking style to follow from start to finish. As a dog trainer who has helped dogs and their owners make walks effective while having fun, I know that sticking to one walking style can make your time outdoors an absolute struggle! Because let's be honest: our dogs are playful, and the outdoors is the perfect setting for unleashing their love for fun! Expecting them to follow one style of walking (and nothing else!) sets you and your dog up for frustration! So, what do you do to make outdoor walks more effective? Here are the two types of dog walks you should follow. The Structured Walk The first dog-walking style is the “structured walk”. Even though it is not THE ONLY walk you can do, it is undoubtedly the most important walk you should master. Most dog owners feel this type of walk is the gold standard, the only way to do things. (More on this later.) During the structured walk, your dog walks with a leash, and you absolutely are in control of the entire walk. You give commands, you decide what your dog can and can't do, and your dog is expected to follow your charge. This is the walking style that tells your dog, "I am in charge of the walk. I make the decisions. You listen to my commands." When you engage in a structured walk, you drive the entire walk, and your dog has to follow YOUR charge. The Social Walk Now, this walking style is what your dog loves! The walk becomes social when your dog can roam free and do what they want for a time. The walk doesn't have a structure, and dogs are more accessible to sniff posts, or check out areas they want to see. Compared to The Structured Walk, this more relaxed option allows your dog to really have fun and socialize! Two Types of Dog Walks: What the Structured Walk Teaches Your Dog Walking your dog the structured way sends them this important message: you're in charge of the walk, not them. The Structured Walk is crucial because it can solve typical dog walking problems such as leash pulling, aggression, overexcitement, and outdoor anxiety. Sure, you will be giving your dog the freedom to roam around and freely explore, but before you do that, your dog must understand you make the calls. And it is during the structured walks that your dog firmly gets the message that makes them say, "Ahh, I should listen to my owner's commands before I do anything during the walk." I actually talk more about The Structured Walk in my blog on the best way to walk dogs, the fifth in my Five Golden Rules series. In a nutshell, The Structured walk is critical because it teaches your dog they're not in charge. And when your dog knows they don't make the calls, they relax, they become less aggressive, and they come to your call (which is an absolute need if you're going to switch to The Social Walk). What the Social Walk Teaches Your Dog The Social Walk is about having fun! Here's the truth: we can't expect our dogs to spend the entire 30 minutes of their time outdoors just following a structured walk. They're already outdoors; they need to explore, run, sniff, and play. The social walk allows your dog to enjoy a little fun and downtime during your walk. Which Should You Do With Your Dog: How to Know Which Walk to Choose So, how do you know which walk to choose between the types of dog walks? When To Use the Structured Walk If you live in a city with limited free space for your dog to roam around, most of your dog walks will be structured (aka, dog on a leash with you commanding your dog what to do). However, if your place has ample space, I recommend using the first five to ten minutes of your time outdoors doing a structured walk BEFORE letting your dog walk more freely. I also recommend using a Structured Walk at the start and the end of EVERY walk to establish and re-establish your role as the one in charge of your time outside. Before you stop the Structured walk to make the switch to Social, I encourage you to ask the following questions: Is my dog coming to me when I call them? Do they have spiked-up energy levels? Do they tend to be aggressive? Does my dog understand boundaries? Have I established clear dog-walking commands with my dog? If safety is an issue for your dog and others, I recommend staying on structured walks before it's absolutely safe to give them

When dog owners come to me for help on how to stop leash pulling, I feel for them, especially when I hear the frustration in their voices. It's understandable why having a dog pulling the leash can be such a pain! If all you want is to enjoy a quiet, peaceful walk with your dog, the constant struggle for control can be exhausting. And most of the time, the leash pulling happens at the start of the walk, making you wonder, "Is going out for a walk even worth it?" Why do dogs do this? Why is there even a power struggle? And should you persist? In this blog, I will talk about my biggest theory of why dogs pull the leash at the start of every walk… and what you can do to change it. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: Understand the Instincts: Dogs pull on the leash due to instincts derived from their wolf ancestors, seeing walks as a time for hunting and leading. They will naturally take the Alpha role if they don't sense a leader, hence the pulling. Be the Alpha Leader: To stop leash pulling, you must establish yourself as the leader in all aspects of your dog's life, not just during walks. This means setting boundaries, giving consistent consequences for pulling, and showing calm, assertive energy. Prepare and React Appropriately: How you start the walk sets the tone. Go out first, decide when to walk, and be ready with calm responses to pulling, like pauses or changing direction. Letting your dog lead or not giving consequences encourages pulling. Stop Leash Pulling: Understanding Why Dogs Pull the Leash Right Before You Start Your Walk You walk to the door; your is already pulling on the leash. You step outside down the stairs, and your dog pulls and pulls as if telling you to "Hurry up!" Your time outdoors is all about having to regain control of the leash. If you've experienced the things I mentioned above, you get how challenging it is to have a dog who wants to take charge of the walk from start to finish. But why do dogs pull the leash at the start of every walk? Let me answer that using dog psychology. You see, our dogs have the DNA of a wolf — 99.98%, to be exact. Why is this significant? Because how your dog acts can be connected to how wolves act in the wild. For the wolves, everything is about survival. When they head outdoors, a walk is not just a walk; it's all about hunting for food. The most interesting thing about wolves is they don't push through with their walk until the Alpha — the pack leader — steps in to lead the way, signals "Let's go!" and goes on to make all the big decisions. Even though our dogs have become more domesticated than their ancestors, they still think like wolves. Someone has to lead, someone has to decide, someone has to be followed, someone has to call the BIG shots. FACT: If your dog doesn't feel like an Alpha is in charge, they will take over. Why? Because dogs, by nature, will always look for the leader. If that isn't filled, they immediately have to assume the role. It’s hardwired into the DNA. And leaders lead…thus, your dog is out front and there is endless leash pulling, especially at the start of every walk. Have you ever observed your dog becoming more in tune whenever the walk happens? They're gearing up to make the big decisions! So… what can you do? To Stop Leash Pulling, You Have to Know That Control Matters to Dogs Control is a powerful concept in dog psychology! Why? Because your dog knows control is essential for survival. The Alpha is their protector! The Alpha tells them how to survive the wild and find food. Your dog pulling the leash shows they have taken the role of the Alpha. Their pulling sends the message, "I'm making the big decisions now. I will tell you what to do!" So when your dog pulls the lead, they aren't deliberately disobeying you or getting on your nerves. They pull the lead because they feel they're the pack leader, and they need to make every crucial decision to make the walk successful because that's what pack leaders do. 5 Things You Can Do To Stop The Dog From Pulling the Leash The biggest solution to stop leash pulling is to actually show your dog they can pass on the hat of leadership to you. Here are some ways you can do it. #1: Be the Leader in Everything Just as the Alpha wolf leads the pack, you need to establish yourself as the leader of your pack. I want to be very clear: to stop leash pulling, you need to be the leader of EVERYTHING, and not just of walking outdoors. Some dog owners assume they only need to show their authority and leadership during the walk, and what happens before or after the walk doesn't matter. I 100% encourage you to take charge of everything, from the walk to the feeding to giving affection and attention. Becoming the leader in your dog's eyes requires an all-round approach, and that's why I made my online dog training program, The Dog Calming Code™️. This dog training program is dedicated to helping you become an all-round leader in your dog's eyes by guiding you on how to feed dogs, give atte

Seeing dog owners letting their dogs run wild when the car door opens is quite a familiar scene. It’s adorable at face value… but it’s a tricky if you want to have calm walks with dogs. “Doggy Dan, do you mean I also have to keep an eye on how my dogs exit the car so I can have peace while I walk outdoors with them?” Yes, you’re right. All your problems with leash pulling, aggression, overexcitement, and yes, even protectiveness will be reduced by simply ensuring you take control WAY BEFORE your dog steps out of the car. Key Takeaways: Control Starts with the Car Exit: The way dogs exit the car sets the tone for the walk. Controlling this aspect ensures a more manageable and enjoyable outdoor experience. Calmness is Key: Encouraging calm behavior from the start, such as opening the car door calmly and giving clear commands, can significantly influence your dog's energy and responsiveness during the walk. Establishing Leadership: Teaching dogs to exit cars calmly reinforces the idea that you are in control. This understanding helps in reducing undesirable behaviors like leash pulling and overexcitement, leading to more peaceful and enjoyable walks. LEARN HOW TO WALK YOUR DOG THE RIGHT WAY WITH DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #5! Table of Contents A Quick Recap of Doggy Dan Rule #5: How You Can Control the Walk The Way Dogs Exit Cars Influences How Your Walks Will Go How to Help Dogs Exit Calmly What Happens When You Help Your Dogs Calmly Exit Cars Learn More About How You Can Take Charge of Your Dog's Walks with the Dog Calming Code A Quick Recap of Doggy Dan Rule #5: How You Can Control the Walk In my previous blog about the Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5, I discussed how you can truly gain control of the walk. In the same blog, I mentioned three pillars for a successful walking experience: #1: You control the walk and the energy. #2: You set the rules on what is acceptable and what is not. #3: Your dog has to know that it’s you who calls the shots. Using this Golden Rule as a guide, letting your overexcited dog run out of the car like a sprinter immediately strikes out your chances of becoming in control of the walk. Read on to learn more about why the way dogs exit cars can make or break your outdoor walks. DOG CALMING CODE: THE PROGRAM THAT HELPS YOU LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES The Way Dogs Exit Cars Influences How Your Walks Will Go If your dog sprints out the moment you open your door, they will be hard to control throughout your time outdoors. You see, the one who controls the walk matters to dogs. If you control the walk, your dog will listen. If you let them run the show, they'll do things on their terms. Now, most dog owners don't make anything big out of the way your dog eject themselves out of cars. But I'm here to tell you that how they leave the car matters in the grand scheme of your dog's time outside. Let me give you an analogy… When I was younger, my parents brought us to exciting trips. My siblings and I would run out of the car, so excited to just be out there. That often gave my parents a hard time because calling us back was impossible once we were out. They needed our help, but we shut them off. My parents learned some hard lessons from those experiences. The next time we went on a trip, they made sure to talk to us before we headed out. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE "You help out first before you play," mom and dad would say. It was easier for us to follow their orders since they set the instructions. And if they did ask us to do something, we immediately listened. We knew what we had to do. We knew what was expected of us. It's pretty much the same with our dogs! If you've ever gone outdoors with your dog, you’ve probably experienced dealing with a hyperactive dog that just doesn't listen no matter how many times you call! They pull the leash no matter how hard you pull back. They also get snappy with almost every dog they meet, making socialization really hard. How to Help Dogs Exit Calmly So, how do you execute this simple hack for a calmer, more relaxed time with your dog outdoors? Really, really, really be the CEO of the walk, and the boss of every step! Here are some ways you can follow below: #1: Open the Door Calmly The operative word here is calm. It's like dog training's prime rule: when you're calm, your dogs are calm, too. You can encourage your dogs to also be in a calm mood by not being agitated, anxious, or restless yourself. Try not to be jittery or preoccupied before opening the car door. Don't raise your voice or get angry when you command them to be still. I recommend doing some breathing exercises and calming yourself before you open the car door; this helps dogs start off with a calm energy, too! LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOG CALMING CODE, THE PROGRAM TRUSTED BY 88,000 DOG OWNERS! #2: Give Clear Commands Be firm with your commands. Say "stay" if you want them to stay and "sit" if you want them to be still. Make sure your dogs understan

If I asked you to write down at least three dog-walking problems, I am sure I’d find leash pulling and misbehaving somewhere on that list. Why? Because almost 80% of those who come to me for help on walking their dog have those issues. And here’s the truth: the solution is fairly simple. The problem starts when dog owners dismiss their dog's little quirks and defiance during walks as nothing serious… until they are. Fortunately, you can flip the switch by doing one simple thing: really making your dog see you’re in charge. How? Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways Leash pulling, barking, and overexcitement during dog walks often stem from a common root: your dog believes it's in charge. If you take charge, your dog will start to relax. Thus, your walks will be more calmer, controlled, smooth. Gentle gestures the walk like calmly pausing to tell your dog they’re not the one in charge can help you retain control from start to finish. LEARN HOW TO WALK YOUR DOG THE RIGHT WAY WITH DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #5! Table of Contents Stop Dog-walking Problems By Taking Control of the Walk Stop Dog-Walking Problems: What Happens When You Take Control of the Walk with Dogs Stop Dog-Walking Problems By Taking Charge… Not Only On Walks. The Dog Calming Code Will Help You! Stop Dog-walking Problems By Taking Control of the Walk The most common cause of dog-walking issues like leash pulling, barking, and getting excited by just about anything is this: your dog thinks they're in control. It's like the case of "whoever gets in the driver's seat first decides where the trip goes." When the dog sees they have taken over the "driver duties" during the walk, expect them to drive… even if it requires pulling the leash, running without your permission, and chasing everything! Yes, they would do all these things despite your non-stop commands of "No, no, no, no!" So it's absolutely critical that control is in your court… and your dog has to know it! Here are some ways you can do that. #1: Take Control Even Before You Start the Walk If you start exhibiting control after leaving the house, you already lost it. Control is solidified when you're the one to decide when to take the walk. "Doggy Dan, what do you mean by this?" I want you to think of this: who decides to go for a walk? If your dog approached you with a leash in their mouth, prodding you to take them outside, AND YOU AGREED, you have lost control. Let's say your dog goes to you to signal they want to go out; here's what you can do… Ignore them for five minutes, then give the cue that it's time for a walk. You're doing this not to make your dog feel ignored but to establish your role as the ultimate decision-maker in walk-related matters. DOG CALMING CODE: THE PROGRAM THAT HELPS YOU LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES #2: Your Dog Will Persist in Regaining Control… You Can Gently Remind Them With This Move Dogs understand control. In fact, dogs are so keen in having it because it's programmed in them that control is necessary for survival. So you will see a lot of attempts to take charge of the walk or get in front of you so they can control the walk. (Bonus note: dogs also try to take control of the walk because they are sometimes very protective and feel responsible for protecting you.) The great thing about dogs is they're quick to get the message. Once you do something that tells them "Hey, I got it. I'm in charge," they will adapt. If your dog makes a run for the door to ensure they go first, do this gentle move: calmly block their way with your legs, open the door, and go first. #3: And If Your Dog Insists on Taking Charge of The Walk, Pausing for a While Works If your dog persists, insisting on being the one in charge, stop the steps. Refrain from continuing the walk until they get the message that you decide what happens with your time outdoors. Doing this simple step is like giving your dog an outdoor timeout. Once your dog gets that you stopped because of their rowdy behavior, they will listen to you. Stop for a few minutes until your dog calms down and understands the message. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE #4: Wrap Up the Walk When Needed If rowdiness persists, you should be quick on stopping and heading back home. I know this can feel heartbreaking for you and your dog, but it's one of the most powerful ways of telling your dog, "Hey, what you did is not going to make this walk continue. Please remember that." Deciding to end the walk right there and then will establish to your dog that, indeed, you have the final word. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOG CALMING CODE, THE PROGRAM TRUSTED BY 88,000 DOG OWNERS! Stop Dog-Walking Problems: What Happens When You Take Control of the Walk with Dogs Chill on the Protective Stuff You know how some dogs get all barky and uppity around other dogs? That's them being overprotective. But guess what? When you take charge of the walk, your dog starts to chill out. They look to you for cues, and pretty

Dogs don’t always say what they’re feeling, so it’s understandable why we want to know the reason why dogs yelp. Each sound our dog makes is crucial; it can signify hunger, distress, and pain. So it’s no surprise our dogs’ sudden yelping sounds can make us spring into protective, worrying mode. Yes, a yelping dog can be a dog in pain. But a dog letting out a high-pitched, petrifying sound isn’t always a pained dog… and it’s an essential truth owners should understand. Key Takeaways: Dogs yelp for various reasons, not always due to pain. It's important to discern the context of their yelping, which can indicate hunger, distress, or leadership struggles. Yelping during interactions with other dogs can be a way of establishing or conceding leadership, not necessarily a sign of pain. The concept of The Dog Calming Code emphasizes the importance of human leadership in a dog's life. By establishing themselves as the leader, owners can reduce dog fights and power struggles. BE THE LEADER YOUR DOG NEEDS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: The Other Reason Why Dogs Yelp: For Dogs, It’s All About Leadership Why Do Dogs Yelp During an Intense Interaction With Other Dogs Why Dogs Yelp Reason #1: Yelping is a Sound of Conceding Why Dogs Yelp Reason #2: Yelping is a Shock Factor to Make the Other Dog Stop Charging Why You Should Not Immediately Intervene Between Two Dogs in a Rumble Dealing with Dog Rumbles: When Do I Step In? The Doggy Dan Dog Calming Code: Becoming the Leader In Your Dog’s Eyes… The Gentle Way The Other Reason Why Dogs Yelp: For Dogs, It’s All About Leadership Here’s a truth I truly embrace: dogs are all about the hierarchy. Knowing who leads and who follows is business #1. When dogs meet, they first sort out leadership because dogs are BIG on leadership. (Thus, the reason for the creation of my popular course, The Dog Calming Code™️ , which you can learn more about below.) If you can observe two dogs that just met at the park, there’s a high chance you’ll catch them growling and seemingly testing the other. Eventually, they will engage in a brawl, a classic way of challenging one another. After a few minutes of commotion, everything gets back to normal. The two dogs fighting earlier will start to interact without any aggression. When two dogs stop fighting or challenging each other, they have already settled who the leader is and who the follower is. THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE #1 PROGRAM YOU NEED FOR CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Why Do Dogs Yelp During an Intense Interaction With Other Dogs Where does yelping come in? Somewhere during the brawl, one of the dogs might let out a sharp cry. (Think: loud, human shriek). It’s a sound that can make any dog owner spring to their feet. But here’s what I want dog owners to know: a yelp isn’t always an indication of pain. Of course, keep an eye on the dog fight and intervene when physical harm is involved. However, I encourage you to also assess the situation BEFORE immediately getting between two dogs. KNOW WHY THE DOG CALMING CODE IS TRUSTED BY OVER 88,000 DOG OWNERS Why? Because yelping can also mean two things: a.) It’s a sound of conceding. b.) it’s a shock factor to tell other dogs, “Stop chasing me. You win.” Why Dogs Yelp Reason #1: Yelping is a Sound of Conceding Dogs understand the value of leadership more than they show. Because of this reason, a dog will not back down until they’ve established themselves as the leader. However, the screaming will start when a dog sees they’re at a disadvantage. The scream that they let out isn’t always a scream of pain. When another dog pins them down, their scream can mean, “Okay, enough. You win. You’re the leader!” It’s like tapping out in a wrestling match, a sure way to communicate surrender. THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE ONLINE DOG TRAINING PROGRAM THAT CAN CHANGE DOG BEHAVIOR Why Dogs Yelp Reason #2: Yelping is a Shock Factor to Make the Other Dog Stop Charging To explain this part, I’m sharing the story of my two kids, Stanley and Sage. Like what children normally do, Stan and Sage would have really intense playtime that could end up in shrieks and cries. There was this one time where Sage, out of nowhere, let out a blood-curdling shriek. Of course, I was very worried. I dropped what I was doing and charged inside the house. “Sage, what did he do to you?” I asked my daughter. She simply said “Oh, nothing. I just didn’t want him to catch me.” And it made sense to me! Screaming so loud can make another person think “Yep, that’s it. They’re over this. They’re done. They won’t be fighting anymore.” It’s the same with dogs! A dog uses loud sounds to ward the other dogs off or to stop fights. An intense sound from your dog is not always an indication of pain, but a way to communicate defense against their strong opponent. CHANGE YOUR DOG’S BEHAVIOR THE RIGHT WAY WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Why You Should Not Immediately Intervene Between Two Dogs in a Rumble Your dog let out a scream of pain… checking in on them

What do you do when your dog's energy levels spike from a 3 to an 8? My answer as a top dog trainer: the Calm Freeze. I know it's daunting seeing your dog transform from well-behaved and calm to rowdy and agitated in the blink of an eye. But here's an important fact I've learned from years of working with dogs and their owners: you, as a dog owner, possess the remarkable ability to transform your dog's behavior from hyperactive and agitated to calm and relaxed. And the Calm Freeze has been proven to bring back your dog's calm and relaxed demeanor WITHOUT having to use any product or tool. I trust it so much I even use it on my dogs. In today's blog, I will talk about the Calm Freeze and how this technique can calm your dogs without tools, words, products, or even force. Key Takeaways The technique is effective in various situations, including overexcitement, aggression, dog fights, disobedience, and anxiety. It reinforces the owner's leadership by showing calm confidence in handling different dog behaviors. The Calm Freeze is about understanding a dog's emotional state, not just a physical technique. LEARN HOW TO BE THE LEADER YOUR DOG NEEDS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents What is a Calm Freeze? How Do You Perform The Calm Freeze? Here's a Step-by-Step Process Why The Calm Freeze Works in Calming Dogs When Can You Use the Calm Freeze? The Calm Freeze is a Great Way to Let Your Dogs Know You're in Charge The Calm Freeze: The Technique That Tells Dogs "Look at Me, I'm Calm. I Want You to Be Calm, Too." What is a Calm Freeze? The Calm Freeze is a strategic approach to soothe a hyperactive, stressed, anxious, or restless dog. It's more than just a technique; it's an understanding of your dog's emotional state and a way to communicate peace and stability. This method isn't about physical restraint but about emotional resonance. By using the Calm Freeze, you're not just controlling your dog's actions but also influencing their emotional state, bringing them from a place of hyper to stillness. How Do You Perform The Calm Freeze? Here's a Step-by-Step Process Step 1: Begin By Calmly Guiding Your Dog Towards You This initial step sets the tone for the entire process — it's crucial that your approach is cool and composed. Don't start the Calm Freeze by shouting or forcing your dog to come to you; this can potentially create more resistance. Step 2: With a Gentle, Upturned hand, Lightly Hold Your Dog's Collar The emphasis here is on gentleness. Your dog will pick up on your calm energy, which, in turn, helps them to relax. Use a finger or two to hold the collar securely. Like I mentioned above, your dog will understand your energy more than your words. When you are calm, your dog will replicate that. THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE #1 PROGRAM YOU NEED FOR CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Step 3: Maintain Your Calm Demeanor Your steady presence can be a powerful calming force even if your dog shows signs of agitation, fear, or restlessness. Your calming presence also helps your dog regulate their energy and emotions. Step 4: If Your Dog Tries to Bite You, Put Them in Timeout If your dog reacts negatively, such as attempting to bite, guide them calmly into a timeout. This pause allows both you and your dog to settle any heightened emotions. Step 5: Gradually Loosen Your Hold and Release Your Dog Once you start to sense their energy levels going down to a 2 or a 3, slowly release your hold. This step is important as it signifies the end of the calming process and a return to normalcy. Why The Calm Freeze Works in Calming Dogs It's a Technique That Dogs Understand Dogs are acutely sensitive to energy. When you, their owner, embody calmness, you're speaking their language. You're giving them cues they understand better than any verbal signal. The Operative Word is "Calm" The ultimate goal of the Calm Freeze is to help dogs bring down their spiked energy levels. Imagine this: asking your dog to calm down through shouting, or threatening them, or getting angry. It doesn't make sense. In your dog's eyes, your words and actions don't click. Following your instructions becomes so much harder. KNOW WHY THE DOG CALMING CODE IS TRUSTED BY OVER 88,000 DOG OWNERS The Calm Freeze believes in this: a gentle approach fosters a peaceful response. Dogs often mirror the energy and behavior of their owners, so the Calm Freeze is the remedy that makes sense. Non-Forceful This technique is effective because it doesn't rely on physical force, which can escalate anxiety and aggression. Also, remember that a pack leader always chooses a gentle and calm approach. Once your dog sees even their antics, anxiety, and aggression don't affect you, their respect for you will increase. With increased respect comes an increased ability to follow your directions. When you gently hold their collar, they get what you mean: "You can calm down now." It Helps De-Escalate Stressful Situations Fast The calm freeze is excellent for quickly diffusing tense situat

The reason why dogs need timeout is because they don't naturally understand human language. If you want to give consequences or correction for a specific dog behavior, you must speak a language your dog totally understands. And that’s where timeouts come in. The thing about timeout for dogs is that it's so simple. And because it's so simple, it's also so easy to overcomplicate and done wrong. Some dog owners don't tap into the power of using timeouts to correct behavior. Some also fail to apply it effectively, leaving dogs to miss the significance of their actions' consequences. As a top dog trainer who swears by timeouts, I'm here to tell you that if you're training your dog, timeout is something you should NEVER overlook or toss aside. Read on to know more. Key Takeaways Unlike shouting or using force, timeouts provide a clear, non-violent message to dogs that their behavior is unacceptable. It offers a direct and consistent response, teaching dogs that their actions have consequences. Dogs, like humans, learn from consequences. Timeout serves as a powerful consequence, indicating that certain behaviors are not acceptable. Gentle consistency is key, avoiding the need for force or intimidation. Combining attention and love when deserved with timeouts for correction helps dogs understand both rewards and consequences. The key to an effective timeout lies in maintaining calm consistency and ensuring control during and after the timeout, reinforcing your role as a reliable leader. DOG CALMING CODE: THE TRAINING PROGRAM FOR RAISING CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Table of Contents Dogs Need Timeout: The Number One Mistake Dog Owners Do When Correcting Negative Behavior Why Dogs Need Timeout: Why a Timeout Is An Effective Way of Disciplining Dogs Why Dogs Need Timeout The Two Things You Can Do to Make Timeout for Dogs Effective FAQs About Timeout for Dogs Using Timeout for Dogs Can Speed Up Your Training Success! Dogs Need Timeout: The Number One Mistake Dog Owners Do When Correcting Negative Behavior Let me share a common scenario I'm sure you're familiar with. Your dog shows negative behaviors — perhaps barking non-stop or chewing on cables, or jumping on guests — which finally gets to your nerves. If you don't do timeouts, you’d more than likely reprimand your dog in a booming voice, "STOP IT!" and then never follow through with a correction or a form of discipline that teaches the dog not to repeat the behavior. The dog knows you are angry, but do they know why? Addressing dog behavior requires a thoughtful approach, and it goes beyond mere reactionary measures. Shouting might momentarily startle the dog, but it fails to instill a lasting lesson that prompts your dog to change negative behavior. The dog, bewildered and possibly frightened, may temporarily stop the behavior, yet the underlying issue remains unaddressed. In such circumstances, your dog is likely to repeat the undesirable action, as the shouting has not effectively communicated correction or what is expected of them. PUPPY COACH: START TRAINING YOUR PUPPIES WITH THE PROGRAM THAT HAS HELPED THOUSANDS This is where the concept of timeout plays a pivotal role in behavioral correction. In dog communication, a timeout is an essential tool. It's not just the act of separation; it's a clear, non-violent message that the dog's behavior was unacceptable. Unlike shouting, which can be both unclear and stressful, a timeout is a direct and consistent response. It teaches the dog that their actions have direct consequences. And this is when change happens. (Check out this blog I wrote about how to make sure you do your timeouts effectively.) Why Dogs Need Timeout: Why a Timeout Is An Effective Way of Disciplining Dogs Dogs love their freedom! Dogs love you! And when you're nearby, they're all about being near you. This is why during a timeout — when dogs are temporarily separated from you and denied their chance of running around — correcting negative dog behavior becomes impactful. This removal is not about isolation but about providing a moment of pause, a break in the pattern that leads to undesirable behavior. In this quiet space, your dog has an opportunity to calm down and reset. They will also begin to figure out why they were put in timeout. Dogs are so fast in associating actions to consequences, they'll get the reason why they are in timeout quickly. Timeout does not use force — this is why it's effective. When you use force, fear, or intimidation, the dog will only feel the energy but never see the lesson. Without timeout, you just inflict fear to your dog but never leave a lasting lesson. CALMER DOGS START WITH THE RIGHT TRAINING. START WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE. Why Dogs Need Timeout Consequences for Actions Dogs, much like humans, learn from consequences. When a dog misbehaves, it's crucial to establish a consequence that is firm yet fair. This teaches them that their actions have repercussions. A timeout allows you to tell your dog "That behavior

The reason for using a short line for dogs boils down to this: control. It sounds extreme, but in dog psychology, the one in control is the one in charge. And when your dog runs under tables and around the garden uncontrollably, and you're having a hard time catching them, you're not in control! The short line for dogs helps you regain control without raising your voice, resorting to harsh strategies, and losing your composure (news flash: in your dog's eyes, a rattled dog owner is NOT a worthy pack leader). Let's talk more about why you should ABSOLUTELY include the short line in your arsenal of helpful dog training tools. Key Takeaways The short line helps establish control, signaling to the dog that the owner is in charge and can guide behavior effectively. The short line makes training sessions cooperative, reducing power struggles and distractions. It facilitates quicker learning without resorting to harsh measures. Acting as a physical boundary, the short line helps the dog understand limits, enabling quick corrections and reinforcing the owner's authority. LEARN HOW TO BE THE LEADER YOUR DOG NEEDS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents Using the Short Line for Dogs: What Is It? 5 Reasons Why Using the Short Line for Dogs Can Change Your Dog Guide to Using the Short Line for Dogs Using The Short Line + The Dog Calming Code Can Transform Your Dogs Using The Short Line for Dogs: What Is It? The short line is a fairly simple tool: a basic lead attached to a dog's harness. This lead's length ranges between 1-2 meters. No fancy instructions are involved; all you need to do is to attach it to your dog's harness safely. As simple as it is, the short line can transform training. Dogs are brilliant, and they understand the concept of control. Do you notice how they run away whenever you chase them? The reason is this: dogs know that as long as you miss them, they win. They're in charge. You have lost control and, therefore, also lose your authority. When the dogs perceive that they can do whatever they want without you being able to correct it, they assume leadership. They see themselves as the pack leader. And the pack leader is firm in their ways. When dogs think they're the leader, they are much harder to train. This is the reason why I love the short line. When you use a short line, you tell your dog, "No, you're not in charge. I am. I can control you when I need to." Slowly, as your dog sees that you can simply use the line to catch them, they will realize that they are not the leader. It's like playing a game of tag! When it's apparent that someone can't catch us no matter what they do, we feel like we rule the game. It's a different story when the opponent is capable in every way! We become more aware that we're not the top players, and we have to be mindful of what other people will do. THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE #1 PROGRAM YOU NEED FOR CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS 5 Reasons Why Using the Short Line for Dogs Can Change Your Dog There's so much that goes into training a dog THE RIGHT WAY. Using a tool like the short line can improve training and address issues such as: protectiveness fear-based aggression resource guarding lack of boundaries non-stop barking recall problems dog anxiety One single short line = tons of perks. Here are three reasons why using the short line can change your dog… and your overall training experience! Reason #1: It Makes Training Easier It's hard to train a dog that is always running away from you. With the short line, training sessions become less of a power struggle and more of a cooperative effort between you and your dog. Using a short leash helps you handle your dog better in different situations without needing to shout. It creates a peaceful atmosphere for both you and your dog. When you use the short line properly, you are not leading with aggression but guiding with gentle firmness. When your dog knows you have the end of the short line, they pay closer attention, learning commands more quickly. In their eyes, you have taken the leadership from them. The short line reduces distractions for your dog, making it easier for them to focus on your instructions and smooths out the training process for both of you. KNOW WHY THE DOG CALMING CODE IS TRUSTED BY OVER 88,000 DOG OWNERS Reason #2: You Regain Control Using a short line pulls the reins of control back into your hands—quite literally. In the wild dance of chasing your dog around the yard, the short line is your dance partner that never steps on your toes. It's a clear and gentle reminder to your dog that while freedom is good, it comes with limits. With a short line, you can quickly and efficiently correct behaviors without breaking stride, ensuring that your dog understands who is leading the training. Reason #3: You Establish Boundaries Boundaries are essential in any relationship, and it's no different with your dog. A short line is a physical representation of these limits. It helps your dog learn where their sp

A whistle for dog recall training is a very important tool that some dog owners overlook. Of course, I recommend you go for solutions that work best for you and your dog. If you've put in all possible effort to train your dog to come when called, and still haven't had any success, the dog recall training whistle is a tool that you absolutely must not underestimate. In this blog, we're going to talk about using a whistle, and why it's a need especially if you want to have dog training success. Let's dive in. Key Takeaways Incorporating a whistle into dog training can enhance recall training, allowing for clear communication and prompt responses without straining your voice. When selecting a whistle for dog recall training, prioritize durability, portability, and sound quality to ensure effective communication with your dog during outdoor activities. Consistency in using the same whistle sound and emphasizing leadership based on guidance and safety are crucial in successful dog training. Patience and a calm approach in handling setbacks are essential for continued progress. A BETTER WAY TO START DOG RECALL TRAINING? START WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents Why I Recommend the Whistle for Dog Recall Training What to Look for in a Whistle for Dog Recall Training Whistle for Dog Recall Training: Strategies and Tips Dog Owners Should Understand Is Your Dog Still Not Responding To Your Calls? Why I Recommend the Whistle for Dog Recall Training I live in the countryside where roads come with rushing cars. I love letting my dogs explore freely, but I also make sure they're still safe. My dogs are trained, and they come when I call. But, I still carry a whistle with me every time we go out because my dogs are also adventurous; I need to make sure they don't stray off to dangerous places. You can say that I'm a top dog trainer that doesn't rely on my voice alone for dog recall training. Here are several reasons why… Dog Recall Whistle Comes With a Powerful Sound That Dogs Can Associate With In my decade of training dogs, I've come to realize the sheer power of simplicity. The whistle is a prime example of that. Unlike the complex modulations of the human voice, a whistle emits a clear, piercing tone that a dog's ear can pick up and distinguish from the distraction of everyday sounds. This crisp sound is unique, making it easier for dogs to associate it with a specific command: recall. DOG CALMING CODE: TEACHING DOG OWNERS TRAIN DOGS BETTER You Reserve Your Voice for The Really Important Commands Your shout should be reserved for the most important communications: when you need to connect with your dog, or when you give the most crucial instructions. Using your voice all the time, especially over distances or in distracting environments, won't be as effective over time. If you're constantly shouting your dog's name during recall training, your dog will find it hard to understand that your voice = urgent. The whistle? It's calm, it's controlled, and it's constant. Because they know the sound of the whistle means "Come back here!" your dogs will come running back to you, no shouting involved. It Reaches Longer Distances and Stands Out Among the Sounds Dog recall training whistles are not just for the training field— they are vital tools for ensuring your dog's safety in the great outdoors. A dog's hearing is finely tuned to pick up high-pitched sounds, which is why a whistle's sound can travel further than the human voice, standing out amongst nature's buzz or the clamor of the city. Whistle for Dog Recall Training Has a Sound Dogs Can Get Familiar With Consistency is key in any form of training. Unlike our voices, which can sound different when we are tired, frustrated, or excited, a whistle's tone doesn't change. This consistency means your dog can get familiar with it quickly, recognizing it as a signal for a specific action: to return to you. PUPPY COACH™️: DOGGY DAN’S PROGRAM FOR TRAINING PUPPIES THE RIGHT WAY. What to Look for in a Whistle for Dog Recall Training If you're going for a whistle for dog recall, what should you choose? I recommend checking out these factors, so you'll get the whistle that's best for you. Durable Material When you're in the market for a whistle, think of it as an investment in your dog's safety. You'll want one that withstands the elements, accidental drops, and even the occasional chew if it falls into curious jaws. Durability ensures the sound remains consistent, which is what matters most for effective recall training. Easy to Bring Outdoors Your whistle should be as ready for adventure as your dog is. Look for something lightweight with an option to attach to your keychain, belt loop, or around your neck. It shouldn't be a hassle to carry; instead, it should be an extension of your outdoor gear as you go outdoors for exercise. With Good Sound Quality Sound quality isn't about music to your ears; it's about a clear, distinct signal to your dog. A whistle with poor sound qu

Training tips for aggressive dogs flood the internet, all promising miraculous results! There’s a mix of positive reinforcement, showering dogs with treats, and even giving dogs really scary punishments! While all these solutions work for a while, I know one thing from my experience as a top dog trainer: you need to get to the heart of the problem to see real progress. The key to addressing snappy behavior in dogs goes beyond mere techniques. In this article, I'll explore why even non-aggressive dogs can become snappy and aggressive. By understanding these root causes, we can use a more gentle yet effective training to transform our beloved dogs into well-behaved and calm pets. Key Takeaway Snappy behavior in dogs often stems from fear, not aggression. Creating a secure environment and providing positive training can help them overcome this behavior. Establishing yourself as a confident and protective pack leader can alleviate a dog's anxieties, reducing their tendency to be snappy. Dogs can become protective of their personal space and territory. Respecting their boundaries can help minimize snappy behavior. LEARN HOW TO HANDLE SNAPPY DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents Why Are Snappy Dogs Different From Most Aggressive Dogs Training Tips for Aggressive Dogs: The 2 BIGGEST Reasons Behind Snappy Behavior How Being The Pack Leader Can Help Snappy Dogs Training Snappy Dogs: What Causes Snappy Dog Behavior? 9 Training Tips for Aggressive Dogs How the Dog Calming Code Can Change Snappy Dogs Why Are Snappy Dogs Different From Most Aggressive Dogs? First, let’s talk about why snappy dogs are unique dogs, especially when it comes to aggression. Snappy dogs possess a unique behavioral trait, distinct from outright aggression. Their inclination to snap arises primarily from fear and boundary concerns. Unlike overtly aggressive dogs, they may not intend harm but resort to snapping when they sense perceived threats. You can see this in small dogs getting barky and feisty once you touch them. You can also see this in seemingly calm dogs whose energy levels spike up from a level two to a level nine when their personal space is threatened. This behavior often emerges when unfamiliar people or situations encroach on their comfort zones or possessions. Snappy dogs are not inherently aggressive but exhibit a protective mechanism driven by apprehension. Understanding this uniqueness is vital for responsible ownership, emphasizing patience, positive training, and creating secure environments to help these dogs overcome their fears and develop more confident, non-snappy behavior. UNDERSTAND SNAPPY DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Training Tips for Aggressive Dogs: The 2 BIGGEST Reasons Behind Snappy Behavior REASON #1: Your Dog is Always on High Alert Because They Think They Are In Charge. For dogs, survival is the name of the game. Therefore, when they think they are the ONLY ONES dealing with danger, dogs become fiercely protective. Our dogs are instinctively wired to seek a leader within their pack. When they perceive a lack of clear leadership, they become anxious and agitated, always on high alert for potential threats. This constant unease can lead to snappy and aggressive behavior as they attempt to assert control and protect themselves. REASON #2: They Are Protective of Their Space Consider this scenario: you're walking down the street, and a stranger suddenly comes up to you and say "Oh you're so cute, I love you!" You'd likely feel violated and possibly react angrily. After all, somebody just got into your space without permission. Dogs are no different; they can become snappy when they feel their territory or personal space is threatened. And for dogs, space is a big deal! This crossing of boundaries is a common scenario among small, popular breed dogs. These dogs are stranger magnets because they can be so adorable; being constantly mobbed by strangers can make them feel overly-protective and aggressive. How Being The Pack Leader Can Help Snappy Dogs Being a pack leader is crucial in addressing snappy dog behavior for several reasons. First, Dogs Have a Natural Instinct to Establish a Hierarchy Within Their Social Groups If they perceive themselves as the leader, they may feel responsible for handling threats or dangers around them, something that can contribute to snappish behavior. You can flip this by embracing your role as the pack leader. It's like tapping your dog on the head to say, "Hey, buddy. I got this. You can chill and hand the danger to me." When you help establish a strong association with you as a fierce, protective, confident, and reliable leader, your dog will learn to ease up and become more tolerant. Second, Dogs Rely on a Pack Hierarchy for Survival They needed a cohesive group to protect themselves from threats. When a dog doesn't feel it can rely on a leader, it might take on this role, resulting in increased stress and potential aggression. Third, Taking the Leadership Role

Doggy Dan, why is my dog overexcited? Also, how to calm overexcited dogs? I often get this question from dog owners dealing with dogs that are always all over the place, jumping on the couch, on them, and on other dogs. They bark, run, and lunge all because they are excited… something that causes a lot of stress not only to their owners but to other dogs as well. These overexcited dogs often get shouted at or barked at because they're constantly invading space, always not listening. In other words, these dogs always get into trouble. And who wants that for their dogs, right? You're in the right place if you have an overexcited dog and want to get to the bottom of the issue. If you're looking for ways to calm an overexcited dog, I have important tips. Read on. Key Takeaways Overexcitement in dogs can manifest in various behavioral signs, including incessant barking, hyperactive jumping, pacing, and the inability to remain still. This behavior often arises from underlying issues related to the dog's perception of its role as the pack leader, a lack of physical and mental stimulation, and overstimulating environments. Establishing yourself as the pack leader is crucial to calming an overexcited dog. By taking charge of mealtime, attention, walks, and all aspects of the dog's life, you communicate that you are the one in control, which can help reduce the dog's overexcitement and restlessness. Additional strategies to calm an overexcited dog include providing regular physical exercise and mental stimulation, consistent obedience training to establish a stronger bond and outlet for the dog's energy, and creating a tranquil home environment that includes a safe space for the dog. LEARN HOW TO HANDLE OVEREXCITED DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents: How to Calm Overexcited Dogs: What Are the Signs to Look Out For What Causes a Dog to be Overexcited? When You Show Leadership, You Calm an Overexcited Dog Apart From Being the Pack Leader, How Do You Calm an Overexcited Dog? How the Dog Calming Code Can Change Your Overexcited Do How to Calm Overexcited Dogs: What Are the Signs to Look Out For Is your dog really just happy or are they starting to show signs of being an overexcited dog? The easiest way to tell is to look at the signs. From non-stop barking to hyperactive jumping, here are some critical signs that you have an overexcited dog who needs help. Sign #1: Incessant Barking (AKA A Dog Who Just Can’t Stop Barking Because of Excitement) This dog is relatively easy to spot. An overexcited dog barks at other people or dogs to get their attention. It's like saying, "Hey, I want to play. Notice me! I'm here!" And when attention is not given, the barking gets more and more persistent. An overexcited dog may bark persistently and excessively, often without reason. This non-stop barking behavior is always a manifestation of heightened arousal, and these dogs often continue barking despite attempts to calm them down. In short, simply telling your dog to "Stop barking!" does not really work. Sign #2: Hyperactive Jumping When faced with excitement, a dog might jump uncontrollably, especially when greeting their owners or encountering new visitors. This jumping can become particularly overwhelming, making it challenging for the dog to focus or listen to commands. UNDERSTAND OVEREXCITED DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Sign #3: Hyperactive Pacing When your dog gets their excitement meter through the roof, they often engage in rapid and erratic pacing, making them unable to settle down or relax. Once your dog gets piqued up, they will find it hard to really calm down or tune in. Sign #4: Inability to Remain Still Overexcitement may render a dog unable to remain still, even for short periods. You can see it in how they fidget, shift positions, or show restlessness. Sign #5: Overzealous Playfulness That May Escalate Into Rough or Aggressive Behavior Overexcited dogs might demonstrate excessive enthusiasm during playtime, which can sometimes turn into overly rough behavior or even aggression. Especially when the other dog don't share their excitement! This behavior can result from the dog's inability to regulate their excitement levels, leading to potential behavioral challenges during interactions with other animals or people. What Causes a Dog to be Overexcited? Understanding the underlying triggers contributing to a dog's overexcitement is CRUCIAL in devising the best training plan for managing their exuberant behavior. When you understand the cause of dog overexcitement, it helps you address the issue clearly. You'll also know how to correct this issue in its roots. Reason #1: Your Dog Thinks They’re the Leader, Thus the Heightened Energy If you don’t establish yourself as the pack leader, dogs will take on that role. And when they do, they will find it difficult to regulate their excitement levels. Without clear guidance and reinforcement of desirable conduct, these dogs may become easily overwhelmed and s

If you are wondering how to deal with an overprotective dog, you MUST know that these animals are NOT naturally inclined to cause harm. In fact, dog aggression from overprotectiveness is a case of a dog’s desire to keep harm away from you and the property they’re protecting. But when is a protective dog too much? And how do you deal with an aggressive, overprotective dog? In this blog, we’re going to talk about dog aggression coming from overprotectiveness and how you, as a dog owner, can help your dogs. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways Giving dogs treats hoping it will stop their overprotectiveness doesn’t work at all. Your dog has to know they can count on you to protect them. Being the leader who shows your dog that you are in charge can ease your dog’s overprotectiveness. “Security dog” and “border patrol dogs” are just some examples of the types of overprotective dogs. Although different, both dogs exhibit behavior connected to their need to protect: barking, charging towards the threat, even biting! LEARN HOW TO HANDLE OVERPROTECTIVE DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents How to Deal with an Overprotective Dog: Why Are Dogs So Overprotective? What Role Do You Play in Dealing with an Overprotective Dog: Take Charge! 9 Signs of an Overprotective Dog 8 Ways To Deal with an Overprotective Dog How to Deal With an Overprotective Dog: The Dog Calming Code Can Help You! How to Deal with an Overprotective Dog: Why Are Dogs so Overprotective? What is an overprotective dog? This kind of dog is easy to spot. One of the overprotective dog types is the “security guard” dog. They usually spring up at the very first sound of the doorbell. Their energy levels can go from 2 to an instant 10! They get up from their little corner to run and bark at the person or animal on the other side of the door. The other kind is the “border patrol” dog. This overprotective dog restlessly goes around the property checking on gates and fences and making sure nothing gets in. Although different, these dogs exhibit aggressive behaviors that drive their dog owners crazy. UNDERSTAND OVERPROTECTIVE DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE But really, what causes a dog to be overprotective? Dealing with an Overprotective Dog: This Dog Thinks They Are in Charge The number one reason for a dog who charges towards the door from the slightest knock or from a doorbell is this: they think they’re in charge. Let me explain through an analogy… Let’s say you come visit my house. I ask you to sit, give you refreshments, and entertain you with conversation. All of a sudden, the doorbell rings. Will you get up to get it? You would probably say “No, I won’t because it’s not my house.” You know that it’s not your job to answer the door. That’s the homeowners job because they’re in charge of everything related to their home. And it’s the same with our dogs: because they think it’s their responsibility to answer to anyone who comes near the house, they go frantic at the sound of a doorbell, or bark when someone gets too close to your property. They think they’re the leader of the house, so they are the first to the door. They think they’re in charge of you and the property, so they rove and guard non-stop to keep you safe. In short, these dogs are stressed, agitated, exhausted, and just can’t relax. All they have on their mind is protect, protect, protect. So how can you help? TEACH YOUR DOG HOW TO SWITCH OFF BY BEING THE PACK LEADER WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE What Role Do You Play in Dealing with an Overprotective Dog: Take Charge! In your relationship with your dog, who is responsible for answering the door? You could say that “My dog knows I am the one in charge.” But do they really? If your dog believes they are in charge, they will continue to be aggressive towards anyone near the door or fence. The “security guard” and the “border patrol” dogs are constantly barking at the door, constantly patrolling the area with an aggressive energy because they think they’re in charge of it! You're a big deal in your dog's world, and that can sometimes lead to them being a tad overprotective. In your dog’s eyes, you and the property are priority #1. But you don’t want that! You just want your dogs to be calm and chill, and let you do all the worrying. WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE, YOU CAN HELP YOUR DOGS CALM DOWN AND SWITCH OFF Here’s where the challenge comes in. You’re probably thinking “I need to get a training program to stop this aggression.” A good move, yes. But which program? Because here’s what I’ve observed so far: most programs aimed at stopping overprotectiveness by just giving dog treats so they will stop worrying. Treats and rewards are not enough. You have to learn how to show them they have NOTHING to worry about. How do you do this? How to Deal with an Overprotective Dog? Be the Pack Leader By Showing Them You Deal with Danger! Remember this ONE CRUCIAL TRUTH before we discuss additional steps to handling an overprotective dog:

When you deal with a fear biter, you have to understand that this dog’s tendency to bite is not fueled by the desire to simply bite. These fear biters are fierce protectors. When dog owners come to me and ask about aggression due to fear, I tell them when they deal with a fear biter, they have to halt the training until they solve the problem on a deeper level. Because most of the time, fear-based aggression that causes biting is not a matter of lack of training but a lack of tactic. In this blog, I’m going to talk about the number one reason why dogs bite due to fear, and how you — their dog owner — can actually change fear biters. Key Takeaways Fear biters don’t bite out of habit. They use biting as a way to protect you and the property from danger. The number one reason why fear biters continue to bite is because they feel that they are in charge, so they have to do all the protecting. The Dog Calming Code teaches the 5 Golden Rules, a set of rules that can help establish YOUR leadership in your fearful dog’s eyes. UNDERSTAND FEAR BITERS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents How to Deal with a Fear Biter: The #1 Reason a Fear Biter Bites How to Deal With a Fear Biter: Change Dog Biting Aggression By Being the Pack Leader So… How Do You Become the Pack Leader That Stops Fear Biting Aggression? How to Deal with a Fear Biter: How Being a Pack Leader Changes Biting Due to Fear Aggression How to Deal With Biting Due to Fear Aggression: Other Reasons Why Dogs Become Fear Biters Fear Biting Dogs: What Are The Signs to Look Out For? How to Change the Fear Biting Aggression in Dogs How to Deal with a Fear Biter: Let the Dog Calming Code Help You! How to Deal with a Fear Biter: The #1 Reason a Fear Biter Bites So why do fearful dogs bite? Like what I always mention in my previous blogs, dogs fueled by fear are driven by their primal responsibility to protect. This issue puzzles dog owners: they usually have a pretty well-mannered dog, until a perceived danger or threat comes near. They immediately show their fangs, and they don’t hesitate biting anything or anyone who they think disrupts safety. I want to emphasize again: fear biters don’t just bite out of habit — they perceive themselves as the one in charge of their owners and their property so… they bite to protect. Here’s a scenario that can explain it better. As parents, we’re actually pretty chill when we’re alone. It’s a different story when we have kids that are under our care. We become more wary about things around us — even anxious! — and always on the edge to protect our kids from the danger of strangers and threatening circumstances. Why? Because we know that when it comes to our kids, we are the ones in charge. And it’s the same with our dogs. Of course they will be scared. Of course they will be protective! TEACH YOUR DOG HOW TO SWITCH OFF BY BEING THE PACK LEADER WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE The fearful biter is a dog that sees themselves as the pack leader and they want the source of danger to know that. They bite to make the danger stay away. So how do you let the fear biter know that there’s nothing they should be worried — or biting — about? How to Deal With a Fear Biter: Change Dog Biting Aggression By Being the Pack Leader Dealing with a fear biter requires both understanding and proactive steps. Becoming the pack leader is a powerful way to effectively address your dog's fear aggression. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it: Our Dogs Have to Know That They Are Not the Leader, It’s Us Dogs often have a natural tendency to assume leadership, which can lead to constant anxiety, vigilance, and eventually fear-based aggression. The best remedy is to assert ourselves as the leaders. Here's how: #1: Stay Calm in the Face of Danger Dogs pick up on our reactions. When they sense danger, try to remain composed. Even if their barking or biting tendencies can get into you, demonstrate that you are unfazed. Let them see that you acknowledge the situation but are not troubled by it. This reassures them that there's nothing to worry about because YOU will do all the worrying. #2: Use Calm and Consistent Corrections If your dog continues to exhibit anxious or aggressive behavior despite your calm leadership, use calm and consistent corrections, such as timeouts. Over time, this can help reinforce your position as the pack leader and correct any bad behavior before it becomes extreme. WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE, YOU CAN HELP YOUR DOGS CALM DOWN AND SWITCH OFF Dogs Should Know They Can Transfer Leadership to Us for Peace of Mind A dog’s primal desire to protect is really strong. So even if you tell them “Don’t worry about it!” they will still worry about it, especially if they don’t see you as the leader who can actually handle dangerous business. By assuming the role of the strong, sure, undeterred pack leader (one they can confidently, totally trust), they can hand the baton of leadership to you. Dogs Should Know You Deal with Danger

The question of how to handle a bossy, dominant dog is common among dog owners who are exhausted, frustrated, and overwhelmed by their bossy dogs. Bossy, dominant dogs have a distinct characteristic: they always want to be in charge over every dog they encounter. They love challenging authority, they display brute strength, and they don’t hesitate in showing aggression. One can say “Oh, but that’s just a dog’s personality!” Though it can be true, dominant behavior not corrected can lead to more serious challenges including your dog dominating you. Stopping aggression in dogs is crucial to avoid other problems including your dog hurting another dog, a disorganized home, and having a dog that just doesn’t listen to you. If you have an aggressive dog, you’re in the right place… In this blog we’re going to talk about the dog psychology behind aggression, the 8 powerful strategies to stop aggression due to dominance, and the mistakes dog owners make that set their dogs back. Key Takeaways A bossy, aggressive dog has one mission in mind: to let other dogs (and people!) know that they’re the one in charge. One of the best ways to handle an aggressive dog is to start establishing YOUR leadership at home. Your dog has to know that you’re the pack leader, and the one in charge. The Dog Calming Code™️ program comes with lessons that can help you regain control over your dominant, aggressive dog. TRAIN BOSSY AND AGGRESSIVE DOGS BETTER WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior: What’s Going on In a Bossy Dog’s Mind? How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior: Aggressive Dog Signs and What They Mean How to Tell When a Dominant Aggressive Dog is Asserting Their Dominance on You Training a Dominant Dog: 10 Best Strategies to Stop Dominant Dog Aggression Five Mistakes Dog Owners Make That Cause Dog Dominance Learn How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior with the Dog Calming Code How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior: What’s Going on In a Bossy Dog’s Mind? What truly drives your dog's need to assert dominance and display aggression? Let me give the explanation through a common scenario often encountered by dog owners with aggressive and bossy dogs. Picture this: when you take your bossy pet to the park, they tend to gravitate towards other dogs, sizing them up. Dogs typically approach each other with erect ears, engaging in a circling ritual as they assess one another. Soon enough, you might hear a chorus of barks, each dog unrelenting! So, why do they behave this way? Especially when there is no food or toy around? The answer is rather straightforward: they exhibit aggression because they want to know who is in charge. The bossy aggression happens when your dog perceives themselves as the alpha… the leader of the pack, so to speak. They have this HUGE need to assert themselves, and if either you or another dog fails to comply with their desires, they resort to aggressive behaviors to assert their dominance. WANT TO TRAIN A DOMINANT DOG? THE DOG CALMING CODE CAN HELP YOU! How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior: Aggressive Dog Signs and What They Mean Signs of aggression in a dominant dog is different from a dog with aggression driven by fear. The aggressive behavior of bossy dogs come from their want to assert authority and put other dogs in their place. Dog owners, knowing these signs by heart can protect you and your other pets from aggressive outbursts of your bossy dog. Here are aggressive dog signs that gives you the cue you need to remind your dog “Hey, it’s me who is in control here.” Barking Is your bossy dog the king of non-stop barking? Dogs use barking as a means to assert themselves as the leader of the pack. It’s their way of commanding attention, demanding for resources, or forcing compliance from other dogs or humans. It's a vocal display of their perceived authority. Growling Growling is a sign you can’t simply brush off! When a bossy dog growls, it's a clear warning that says “You are pushing the boundaries!” A bossy dog can resort to growling in instances such as: Another dog getting into their space When they see another dog — or you — as a threat to their authority When other dogs are challenging them The growling can escalate to aggression if the perceived threat persists. It's a signal that the bossy dog believes they have the right to control the situation and are willing to use force if necessary. Stance That Says "I'm Ready to Fight" You’ve probably seen this if you have a bossy dog: the dominant stance, which includes standing tall with their head held high, and a stiff body posture. Aggressive, dominant dogs use this stance to communicate their readiness to engage in a confrontation if challenged. It's a serious way of saying "I'm in charge, and I'm prepared to defend my position." IF YOU HAVE A DOMINANT DOG, THE DOG CALMING CODE CAN HELP YOU REGAIN CONTROL! Bumping Heads In the dog kingdom, head bumping is a show of dominance. One dog asserts dominance by position

If you’re eager to know how to help fearful dogs, I know where you’re coming from. Fearful dogs are exhausted. You can read their exhaustion through their habits and body language: they can’t easily sleep, they’re reactive, and they’re triggered by the littlest things. If you own a dog that is highly fearful, you already know telling them “Please, calm down” doesn’t work. So what do you do as a dog owner to truly pacify your dog’s fears? I’m sharing an IMPORTANT dog trainer tip I’ve learned through the years. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: If you want to know what causes dog fears, it’s important to check your fears as well. You can directly influence your dog’s reaction to things! Helping fearful dogs overcome their fears starts with letting them see our calm, confident, unfazed energy. When we don’t give attention to things that worry them, it sends a message that they can ignore it, too. Becoming the pack leader is an important ingredients to stopping fearful dogs from becoming more stressed! RAISE CALMER DOGS, BRAVER DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE! Table of Contents: Dog Owners and Dog Fears: The Story of the Woman with a Reactive Dog How to Help Fearful Dogs: The #1 Reason For Your Dog’s Fearful Energy Helping Fearful Dogs: Other Reasons Why Dogs Are Afraid 10 Signs of a Fearful Dog How to Help Fearful Dogs at Home How to Help Fearful Dogs Outdoors Dog Calming Code: Helping Fearful Dogs Become Calmer and More Confident Dog Owners and Dog Fears: The Story of the Woman with a Reactive Dog My heart is close to dogs struggling with fears and anxiety. So when a lady told me that she had a problem with her reactive dog, I recommended a consultation. When I met them, I couldn’t sense any agitated energy in her dog. So we started rolling the camera to record the dog’s interactions as part of the consultation. (And boy, I’m sure glad we did!) When I asked them to walk, the dog was chill… until they had to walk past my dog. The woman’s dog snarled, barked, and poised to attack the other dog. That immediately made me wonder “What caused the change?” I knew the dog was reactive, but the way they shifted from calm to aggressive caught my attention. We decided to review the tapes to see what caused the change. And the moment I saw it, I immediately knew the exact reason. During the walk, both owner and dog carried a happy, calm energy. When the dog had to walk past my dog, the owner did a slight, almost unnoticeable tug on the leash. A gesture that meant “Hey, there’s a dog and I’m quite worried with what you’re going to do. Don’t come near him.” And the dog immediately thought “Oh, so that dog is danger!” The reasonable next step is for the dog to react to the threat — it was their way of protecting their owner from something they think is scary. WHAT MAKES BETTER, CALMER DOGS? THE DOG CALMING CODE IS THE ANSWER! CHECK IT OUT HERE. How to Help Fearful Dogs: The #1 Reason For Your Dog’s Fearful Energy I'm about to share a game-changing secret from my experience as a top dog trainer. When it comes to helping fearful dogs: your energy matters more than you might think. Now, let's dig deeper with a few questions: Have you ever noticed that your fears influence your dog’s fears? Do you observe your dog getting more fearful when you’re also feeling anxious or worried? Has your dog shown fear toward things THAT SECRETLY SCARE you? If you find yourself answering “yes” to all these questions, it’s time to understand a fundamental principle: “Energy Flows Where Your Attention Goes.” What does this mean, exactly? It means that if you're focused on things that trigger either YOUR fears or YOUR DOG'S fears, there's a good chance your dog will start to fear those things too. Let me illustrate this with an example: Think back to the woman I mentioned earlier. When she paid no mind to my dog, her dog remained calm and unbothered. But the moment she started to react with worry, her dog sensed that worry and began displaying fear-based aggression. Now, picture a different scenario: What if that woman— instead of panicking — decided to ignore my dog and redirect her dog's attention elsewhere? Do you think her dog would react with the same level of aggression? I'd bet my bottom dollar that the dog wouldn't be as aggressive. In essence, your energy and attention play a pivotal role in shaping your dog's feeling towards certain things. THE DOG CALMING CODE CAN HELP DOGS BEHAVE BETTER Helping Fearful Dogs: Other Reasons Why Dogs Are Afraid Now that I laid out the number one cause for dog’s fears — which is your own fear as a dog owner — it is also important to talk about the other reasons that cause fearful dogs. Lack of Socialization Lack of socialization causes fearful dogs because they feel everything and everyone is a stranger to them. And unfamiliar people and things can cause fear! Insufficient exposure to different people, animals, environments, and experiences during the critical socialization period (typically between 3 a

Any loving dog owner gets concerned about the factors that cause dog stress. After all, we just want the best for our pets, from their physical to mental health. You can attribute the cause of dog stress to multiple factors: unhealthy upbringing, violent history, a chaotic environment, and strained relationships with owners and other dogs. But what most dog owners usually overlook is a stress trigger that affects more dogs than we know it: dog owner stress. Yes, you read that right: your stress as a dog owner affects the stress levels of your dogs. And although it is quite heartbreaking to know that dogs can absorb our stress, there’s a bright side: it is also YOU that can make it better for your beloved dogs. This is what I’m going to share with you today. Read on to learn more. What Research Says About Dog Owner Stress Being a Cause of Dog Stress A research found out that dog owners’ acute and long-term stress has a direct impact on their dog’s stress levels known as cortisol. In one of the studies published in the Scientific Report where a team studied 58 dog owners and their pets, it was discovered that stress are synchronized between dogs and the ones caring for them. Whenever dog owners get elevated stress, dogs exhibited a spike in cortisol as well. It also indicated that the closer the bond and the stronger the reliance, the more susceptible dogs are to absorbing their owner’s stress and emotions. The senior zoologist conducting the research, Lina Roth, emphasized that dogs truly understand their owners, especially in the emotional aspect. “Dogs are quite good at understanding humans,” Roth added. Hearing this can make a dog owner go “Awww…” but this sweet fact comes with a downside: when we’re sad and stressed, our dogs feel it, too. Your Dog Feels Emotions Rather Than Hear Words, And That’s One Thing That Causes Dog Stress I always say this: your dog can’t always hear what you say because your actions and emotions are louder than your words. When you communicate with a dog, they assess your body language and tone of voice to make sense of your words. You might say “I always tell my dog to calm down, Dan. I encourage them to not go crazy with stress!” But here’s a dog trainer insight: no matter how much you assure your dog, if your stress levels are through the roof, they will know. “Calm down” is just a phrase if your dog can see the worried, nervous, or annoyed energy behind your words. Your dog can go “Wait, why are they worried? Why do I sense panic? Should I worry? My owner looks worried so I think I should be, too!” And the cycle goes on and on: you’re wondering why your dog can’t seem to understand your request, while your dog can’t stop picking up the panic and frustration in your voice. As a top dog trainer that has seen this scenario play out thousands of times, here’s a simple rule I always encourage dog owners to remember: your dog is your mirror. Before they do anything, they must first see it in you. Your Dog Is Your Mirror: A Chill Dog Owner = A Chill Dog I have seen a real life example of a dog owner directly affecting the personality and energy levels of their pets. One day, while I was on my way to a consultation, I saw an interesting sight: a dog owner walking oh-so-calmly with his dog. From the get go, it would sound like nothing out of the ordinary. But the dog in this story is a pitbull. A dog that is so notorious, so scary, and always exuding boss energy! But on that day, I was totally taken by surprise at how calm the dog was. So calm, they follow their dog owner wherever he goes. The dog had no leash, and showed zen-like calmness. It only took one look for me to know why. His dog owner was absolutely chill. No worried stance, steps light and easy, and it looked like he was having a great time in their outdoor stroll. It confirmed to me: yes, indeed, the pitbull was chill because his owner was absolutely chill. Why Dog Owners Cause Dog Stress: Top 3 Reasons from a Top Dog Trainer If the man in my story can influence his dog to be relaxed and diffuse agitated energy, imagine the opposite: what will happen to our dogs if we perpetually show stress. “But why are dogs influenced by our stress, Doggy Dan?” The moment these dogs come into our home, they become our companions. When it comes to reacting, perceiving danger, and socializing they will be looking up to you as their example. Whatever you do, they will do. But it does not stop there. Whatever you feel, they also feel. So if you’re wondering why dog owners cause dog stress, here are the reasons. Dog Owners Don’t Understand That They Cause Dog Stress I totally know the look on your face right now. It’s the same look I usually get when I tell dog owners that they unintentionally cause dog stress. But before you feel guilty, I want you to know that you’re not alone on this boat. Even the most loving, most protective owner can make dogs feel stressed even without meaning to. For example: Reacting in a worried tone all the time

If anyone comes to me for tips on how to get dogs to listen more, I always ask them to do this: “Think of the most connected, most effective conversations you’ve had with a loved one. Were they done with shouting, or were they filled with calm, understanding energy?” Surely, you would say the latter. And it’s true. As a parent, the most effective conversations I've had with my children are ones done in absolute calmness. No anger. Without raised voices. No hurtful words. And like what I mentioned in my book “What The Dogs Taught Me About Being A Parent”, it’s the same with our dogs! One of the best ways to make dogs listen and connect with us is to practice silence and calm energy whenever we communicate with them. Read on to learn more about this. Key Takeaways: Dogs listen and connect with us more when we have a calmer energy. Starting the day with a calmer energy helps our dogs become calm and receptive to us. What we consider as regular noise can already be too overwhelming for our dogs. Making sure our energies and noise are regulated can help dogs tune in better. CONNECT WITH YOUR DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: How to Get Dogs to Listen: We Listen More to Silence Than the Noise Why Silence Is Important in Making Dogs Listen to Us More 5 Reasons Why a Dog Is Not Responding To You 3.1 Reason #1: They Are Overwhelmed 3.2 Reason #2: The Energy You Have Speaks Differently Than Your Voice 3.3 Reason #3: You're Shouting a Lot, and They No Longer Know What's Urgent and What's Not 3.4 Reason #4: You Are Not Connected with Your Dog 3.5 Reason #5: They Don't See You as a Leader They Can Trust Use this Quick Exercise on Silence and Calm Energy To Make Your Dog Listen More 4.1 Step 1: Start Your Day Quietly 4.2 Step 2: Observe the Effect on Your Dog 4.3 Step 3: Call Your Dog Calmly How to Get Dogs to Listen More: Why Yelling Is Not the Answer 5.1 Reason #1: Yelling Tells Your Dog You’re Not a Confident Leader, Making It Hard for Them to Follow You 5.2 Reason #2: Yelling — as a Knee Jerk Reaction — Rarely Builds Any Connection 5.3 Reason #3: If We Go About Yelling Every Time, Our Dog Will Constantly Carry a Stressed Energy With Them The Dog Calming Code: The Program That Helps Calm Dogs Down and Makes Them Listen More How To Get Dogs to Listen: We Listen More to Silence Than The Noise Let me share a simple story that shows why quiet moments matter when communicating with dogs. My wife and I went on a double date with our friends one evening. We all started chatting in the car and having a great time. But during the trip, something interesting happened. My friend and I stopped talking and focused on listening to our wives speaking softly. My friend turned to me and said, "Hey, mate, I think they're talking about something important!" We spent the rest of the drive in complete silence, eager to hear what they were discussing. This experience made me realize that sometimes, being quiet and calm helps you communicate better than shouting! This lesson from everyday life also applies to training dogs. Our dogs respond better to calm and quiet energy than loud noises. If you really want your dog to listen, focus on the silence and the calm. LEARN HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Why Silence Is Important in Making Dogs Listen to Us More Important note: I have to add here that when I say silence, I don’t mean you say zero words to your dog. It is being intentional with words, ensuring we keep what we say, and our energy, in check. So, why is silence important for dogs? In the wild, dogs are calmer and quieter. They are not used to hearing shouting. In fact, they only use their sound — like barking and howling — to communicate danger and to protect the pack. They use noise for the REAAAALLY important stuff. It’s a different story for our domesticated dogs. Every single day, they have to deal with different kinds of noise like: The hustle and bustle of morning preparations when kids and adults start their day. The busy reunions at night time when everyone has to scramble to prepare for dinner or family time. Loud sports matches on TV and the hyperactive energy from watching these kind of programs. And what seems to be regular noise to us is already too much for our dogs. Too much that it makes dogs tune out and not hear what we are saying! And this overwhelm and tuning out makes it hard for dogs to understand your commands, which can make you wonder, “Does my dog even listen to me?” 5 Reasons Why a Dog Is Not Responding To You I always tell dog owners this: a dog who doesn’t seem to listen is a dog who has tuned out. Dogs are not inherently disobedient and defiant. Sometimes, it’s just hard for them to get you. Here are some factors that could contribute to their inability to listen and respond to your commands. Reason #1: They Are Overwhelmed Just like humans, our dogs can become overwhelmed by their surroundings or situations. If your dog is exposed to too much stimu

If you’re here because you’re wondering how to teach boundaries to dogs, I’m here to commend you! I know it’s tough. When our dogs start to show their puppy eyes, denying their requests becomes so hard. But there is power in SAYING NO. When dog owners say NO, it paves the way for better obedience training, and dogs that are calmer and easier to take care of. Additionally, dog owners who say NO are less likely to deal with aggressive, restless, stressed, and anxious dogs who don’t listen. “How is that possible, Dan? Can behavior problems really start because of not saying NO?” YES. Giving NO to your dog equals you showing your leadership and boundaries. And setting those two in place can make a BIG difference to your training and relationship with your dogs. Read on to learn how to teach boundaries to dogs and why NO is one of your most powerful dog training tools. Key Takeaways: A dog that gets YES all the time will start to think that they’re in charge. And when they think they’re the leader, behavior problems such as barking, aggression, and disobedience come up. Saying NO does not need to come with a heavy, angry energy. Using a calm energy while saying NO can communicate that your answer still comes from a place of love. You need to say NO to your dogs because it is one of the most powerful ways to show dogs that you’re in charge, you’re the leader of the pack. SET BOUNDARIES WITH YOUR DOGS THE RIGHT WAY WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: Why Set Boundaries With Dogs? My Experience with Spoiled Dogs How to Teach Boundaries: The Power of NO in Dog Psychology How to Teach Dog Boundaries By Saying NO Why No is an Expression of Love and a Powerful Way of Teaching Dogs Boundaries Dog Calming Code: The Program That Will Help You Set Boundaries… With Love Why Set Boundaries With Dogs? My Experience with Spoiled Dogs Here’s what I’ve learned in my years of working with dogs: some of the hardest dogs to train are the ones that receive SO MUCH LOVE. Disclaimer: showering our dogs in love is not inherently bad. However, when great love comes with zero boundaries and no rules, it becomes a problem. Dogs who are constantly given EVERYTHING they demand become a big problem to the owners that adore them. I’ve seen this firsthand. Some would come up to me asking “Dan, we’ve given our dog everything! What could be the problem?” THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE ONLINE PROGRAM THAT HELP YOU RAISE BETTER BEHAVED DOGS What Saying “YES” to Every Request (AKA Spoiling Your Dog) Does To Them Here’s the problem: if your dog is acting up, not listening, and still charging around despite asking them to behave, you might check if you have a spoiled dog. Ask these questions… Am I saying yes to my dog’s requests all the time? Am I letting my dog run the show and make the decisions? Do I treat disobedience with leniency instead of really setting the rules? If you said YES to any of these questions, you could be dealing with a spoiled dog. Spoiled dogs are just like spoiled kids: they are defiant, they are hard to control, and it’s a challenge to get them to respect authority and boundaries. Some may say “Oh, they’re just acting up because that’s part of their personality.” But the bottomline is this: because your dog sees you respond to every bark, every request for treats, every nudge for snuggles, your dog feels they are in charge—they can get whatever they want, WHENEVER! Giving a YES can be tempting, but in the long run, letting dogs have everything they want can have serious consequences. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE Consequence #1: Dogs In Charge Have Zero Downtime. They’re Constantly on High Alert Constantly saying YES to your dog’s demands has their mind going… “Aha! They said yes to my requests. They gave me treats when asked for some. I peed on the floor and I didn’t get a timeout! I barked and we walked! They gave me everything! Looks like I am the new leader here now.” You’ll see the signs once the leadership hat switches from your head to theirs—they’ll be more defiant, they’ll invade your space more demanding attention. Sleeping is also difficult for dogs who think they’re in charge. Even if they do lie down, they sleep lightly…making them even more anxious. Because all the time they’re tightly focused on ensuring the safety of you and the property. Their system is perpetually stressed from all the guarding and protecting, leaving them exhausted, worried and more prone to health issues. Consequence #2: They're the Leader, They Find No Reason to Listen to You Dogs are masterminds. Their seemingly safe, sweet cues can actually be their way of checking if you’re the leader they can trust and rely on. And if you give in, you lose that leadership in your dog’s eyes. When your dog starts to perceive themselves as the leader, they may not see any reason to listen to your commands. They’ll ignore your requests, become disobedient, or refuse to follow basic training cues. This makes

The best way to know how to walk a dog is to understand this crucial principle: In every walk, there’s a follower, and a leader. And most of the time, the leader is NOT you. “What do you mean, Dan? Are you saying that even if I hold the leash, I’m still not in control?” That’s right! Which explains why dogs tend to pull ahead of you on the leash, or become so uncontrollable during the walk — stopping to sniff wherever they want, lunging at other dogs — they think they’re the CEO of the walk, and you have to follow them. But here’s the thing: it’s SO HARD to know when you start to lose control and when your dog begins to take over. This shift in leadership can be very subtle, but really impactful. And the problem is so common, I see thousands of dog owners struggling with it everyday. For this reason, I created Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5 which aims to help dog owners tell their dogs “Hey, I know we’re not at home anymore but I’m still the leader here.” And when dog owners take charge of every walk, they enjoy a calmer, happier outing with their dogs. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: Walking your dog gives you an opportunity to show to your dog that you’re in charge… even outdoors! If you want a calmer, less aggressive dog the most important thing to do is to show your dog that you’re in charge of the walk. For Doggy Dan Rule #5 — How to walk your dog — to work, you need to put the first four rules in place. LEARN HOW TO WALK YOUR DOG THE RIGHT WAY WITH DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #5! Table of Contents: A Recap of The First Four Golden Rules Rule #5: How to Walk Your Dog To Help Them See You’re In Charge How to Walk Your Dog: What Goes Wrong Before A Walk Dog Psychology: How to Walk Your Dog the Better Way with Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5 Structured Walk Vs. Social Walk 4 Helpful Tips on How to Walk Your Dog From a Top Dog Trainer Learn How to Walk Your Dog the Right Way with Doggy Dan Rule #5! A Recap of The First Four Golden Rules I always remind dog owners who want to know how to walk dogs better that Golden Rule #5 works so much more when the first four rules have been put in place. If you haven’t checked them out yet, here’s a quick recap. Rule #1: Controlling the Food Your dog has to know that you have the ABSOLUTE control over food. You can find more about Rule #1 here. Rule #2: Delaying Acknowledgement After Separation If your dog jumps on you after separation, is that an expression of love or a challenge to your leadership? Rule #2 is about establishing your role as the pack leader through delaying acknowledgement after separation. Learn about Rule #2 here. Rule #3: Your Terms To become the reliable, trustworthy pack leader in your dog’s eyes, you and your dog MUST DO EVERYTHING in your terms. Check out Rule #3 here. Rule #4: Dealing with Danger Stop barking and aggression by showing your dog when it comes to danger, YOU’RE THE ONE IN CHARGE AND YOU’RE THE DECISION MAKER. Not them. Learn about the power of Rule #4 here. Rule #5: How to Walk Your Dog To Help Them See You’re In Charge Just like with the first four rules, the fifth rule in the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules zeroes in on making sure YOU establish yourself as the leader by taking control of the walk. While the first four rules help you become the pack leader inside the house, the fifth rule communicates to dogs that you’re still the pack leader even if you are outside the property. It’s you who is in charge, so it’s you they should listen to, depend on to, and obey. Think about this: Ultimately, we want a calm dog who follows our directions, and does not come with a high-strung, protective energy during the entirety of our time outdoors. And for that to happen, our dogs should know that they are not in charge. They also don’t call the shots before and during the walk. The Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5 consists of three pillars that can help you take control of your walk.. Pillar #1: You Control the Walk, You Control the Energy Your dog has different energy levels. The higher the energy level, the more your dog will exhibit behavior that includes high-strung energy, aggressive lunging and pulling, and ignoring commands. Ideally, you would aim for an energy level of one or two (three max!) when going for a walk. And the way to retain this calm energy is to show that you’re in charge of when, where, and how you want your walk to happen. A spike in your dog’s energy usually happens when dogs feel like you have given control away to them. This includes submissively giving in to your dog's request to be walked and letting them decide when to go, rewarding your dog's hyperactive enery, and encouraging them to dictate where to go on the walk. BUT When your dog sees that you are the ultimate decision maker, your dog will remain calm all throughout, and will be receptive to your instructions. Pillar #2: You Set the Rules on What’s Acceptable or Not You must understand that your dog has to see you’re firm in things that are acceptable or not. This means clearly c

Dogs do not bark just because. Anyone who wants to know how to stop dog barking should understand behind any excessive barking is a real, serious trigger… at least in our dog’s eyes. Indeed, barking is a big behavioral issue! But it is often misunderstood. Most dog owners and even dog trainers treat barking at face value, as if there’s nothing more to it. This is where most solutions get it wrong — they focus on stopping dog barking without addressing the root cause of the problem. Dog owners get frustrated because even if they do get some success, after a few days of silence, the barking resumes! This is what I aim to change with Rule #4 of the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules. As a top dog trainer who has seen the most notorious of barkers switch off after just a few tries, I have proven that the best way to solve a barking issue is to be the leader WHO DEALS WITH DANGER. A leader who can tell a dog “You can hand over the protecting to me. I deal with danger. I've got you covered. You can relax.” What does this mean and how can you be this kind of leader? Read on to learn more about Doggy Dan’s Golden Rule #4. Key Takeaways: Dogs are naturally protective because for them, all that matters is their survival and the pack’s. Rule #4 focuses on helping dog owners communicate to their dogs “I am in charge, I will decide how to react, I deal with danger, you can relax.” Saying “Thank You!” is one of the ways to make dogs understand that YOU are in charge with danger, not them. LEARN HOW TO STOP DOG BARKING WITH THE DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #4! Table of Contents Recap: Rules #1, #2, #3 of the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules Rule #4 is Dealing with Danger: Dear Dog, I am in Charge of Danger, Not You How Rule #4 of the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules Help You React Like a Leader In Charge of Danger What Your Dogs Will Learn From the Rule #4 The Five Most Common Mistakes Dog Owners Do to Stop Dog Barking How to Stop Dog Barking: Calmer Dogs Have Owners Who Understand Rule #4 By Heart Dog Calming Code: Helping Dogs Stop Barking and Live the “Switched Off” Life How to Stop Dog Barking: Rules #1, #2, #3 of the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules Recap Important Note: Before you implement Doggy Dan Golden Rule #4 — Dealing with Danger — with your dog training, it’s imperative that you are already following Rules #1, #2, and #3. Unless these rules are in place, you and your dog won’t be able to make Rule #4 work as effectively. To recap, the first three rules focus on winning your dog’s mind by showing them you’re the pack leader, not them: Rule #1 talks about controlling the food and understanding why being in control of the food communicates that you are in charge. (You can check Rule #1 here.). Rule #2 is about the importance of ignoring your dog after separation and why it’s crucial in establishing leadership in the home. (Learn about Rule #2 here.) Rule#3 is about helping your dogs pass on the leadership hat to you through showing them that you and not them call the shots. (Learn about Rule #3 here.) These rules are important prerequisites to make sure Rule #4 really does its magic on your dogs. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Rule #4 is Dealing with Danger: Dear Dog, I am in Charge of Danger, Not You Dogs are naturally very protective of us. Why? As established in the first three blogs for this series, nothing matters more to our dogs than their survival, and the pack’s. (Watch the full video below for Rule #4) This protectiveness comes from their wolf ancestry as wolves are stalwart in protecting the pack from potential threats. Therefore, anything they think poses any danger to the pack are dealt with VERY SERIOUSLY Strangers walking past the property? Dog will bark. Motorcycle zooms by? Dog barks. Birds swooping through the garden? Dog goes nuts. I often say this: unless trained, dogs are instinctive—they DO what’s natural for them. And what’s natural is to ensure the pack and the property are safe. WE CAN’T BLAME A DOG FOR BARKING AT RANDOM THREATS ALL THE TIME: THEY NEED TO ALERT US TO DANGER TO KEEP US SAFE. What Dogs Communicate with Every Bark In every “woof, woof” your dog makes to a stranger across the street, or a distant sound is this message: “Hey, this is my property and I am in charge. I will deal with you! You look dangerous, you have to stay away! I’m going to bark so you will be scared to come near.” If you want to know how to stop dog barking, this is crucial info! Simply saying “STOP!” won’t do it for our dogs, no matter how much we try. They’re protectors — they won’t get it why you’re asking them to stop when danger is really there! They’re worried the strange shadow that passed the window will harm you or the property, so unless their fear of the danger is pacified, barking will persist. How Doggy Dan Rule #4 Helps Dogs Switch Off and Stop Barking Rule #4 enables dog owners to communicate this clearly to dogs: “You are not the one in charge of danger, I am. You can relax.

The question of how to improve dog obedience boils down to one thing: in the eyes of your dog, who is in charge? When no leadership is in place, dogs usually take on the role of the leader... and this paves the way for bad behavior issues to arise. I always tell dog owners that if they want to see a significant improvement in dog obedience, they HAVE TO BE THE LEADERS. And Rule Number Three of the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules — DOING EVERYTHING ON YOUR OWN TERMS — helps dog owners become just that: the leaders dogs respect and trust. But what exactly does “DOING EVERYTHING ON YOUR OWN TERMS” mean? What does it entail? And why is it such a CRUCIAL rule? Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways The dog who feels they can invade and control your space will be very protective of you because they feel that they’re in charge. This is where behavior issues come in. Doing EVERYTHING ON YOUR TERMS helps establish that you’re in charge, and you’re the one calling the shots. Rule Number Three encourages dog owners to be the ULTIMATE decision makers for everything that involves their dogs. From feeding, to affection, to leisure, exercise — everything should be your call! LEARN HOW TO IMPROVE DOG OBEDIENCE WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: How to Improve Dog Obedience: Recap of Doggy Dan Golden Rule Number 1 and Rule Number 2 Rule Number Three: How To Improve Dog Obedience By Doing Everything On Your Terms How to Improve Dog Obedience: The Story of a Woman with an Aggressive Dog How to Improve Dog Obedience: The Dog Psychology Behind Rule Number Three If Dog Obedience Training Gets Hard, Remember These 4 Reasons Why Rule Number Three Is a Must-Do Conclusion: Learn How to Improve Dog Obedience + The Powerful Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules with the Dog Calming Code How to Improve Dog Obedience: Recap of Doggy Dan Golden Rule #1 and Rule #2 The common factor between these two rules are taking control and being the leader in your relationship with your dog. You see, most behavior issues come from dog owners not putting these rules in place. And through the lens of dog psychology, without these rules, your dog has no other choice but to be the leader instead. So here’s why Rule Number One and Rule Number Two are essential pillars in dog training. Rule #1 of Doggy Dan’s Five Golden Rules: Controlling the Food The goal of Rule Number One is to help dog owners understand that for dogs, FOOD IS NOT JUST FOOD. The power of food is HUGE and dog owners can really use their dog’s daily meals to teach BIG lessons. Dogs regard FOOD as a treasure. It’s their lifeline. When they have it, life could not be better. FOOD IS EVERYTHING! And when you take control of the food, it sends a powerful message to your dog about who is really in charge. IMPROVE DOG OBEDIENCE WITH THE RIGHT FOUNDATION, CHECK OUT DOG CALMING CODE NOW Rule #2 of Doggy Dan’s Five Golden Rules: Delaying Acknowledgment After Separation Rule Number Two is inspired by how wolves operate in the wild. Every after separation, wolves would go to their leader NOT TO SHOW AFFECTION but to actually see if the Alpha is still capable of providing food and protecting the pack. Our dogs are domesticated, but they still operate like this! Some dog owners would say “My dog is just so affectionate. They just want to reconnect with me.” In the eyes of your dog, it’s a different story. They’re also checking on you, eager to see if you truly are a capable leader. Delaying acknowledgment or attention is like an Alpha’s way of assuring the other pack members “Don’t challenge me. I am still the leader.” Rule #3: How To Improve Dog Obedience By Doing Everything On Your Terms In the first two rules, we really stress the idea that your pup should see you as their food provider and as the confident leader who can handle anything that comes their way. For Rule #3, the golden rule is EVERYTHING ON YOUR TERMS What does it mean? In every interaction, only two things can happen: you do everything on your terms OR your dog gets the upper hand and does things on their terms. Being in control and being in charge DOES NOT STOP with food and affection. Decisions like where to go, what to do, where to potty, when to give hugs and pats, and when to train, are your call. It’s like this: your dog should know when it comes to decision making, YOUR word is the green light. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Why? Why does it matter that YOU give the go signal for everything? Because dogs ARE ALWAYS LOOKING OUT FOR THE ONE WHO IS IN CONTROL. They are also VERY PARTICULAR WITH HIERARCHY. Dogs actually play mind games with us. A dog’s cuddles and bid for attention, DO NOT ALWAYS MEAN AFFECTION. It’s always their way to check if YOU ARE A WORTHY LEADER. You can counter these games by showing to your dog “No, in this house, I call the shots. Everything’s on my own terms.” However, in my years as a top dog trainer, I have seen a lot of dog owners fall into the trap of letting their dog INV

Rule Number Two of the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules always surprises dog owners who are new to the concept. If viewed through the lens of human psychology, Rule Number Two can make any dog owner go “But oh, isn’t that going to hurt my dog’s feelings?” After all, Rule Number Two is about delaying acknowledgement after a moment of separation from your dog. As a trainer who has seen the Five Golden Rules successfully adopted by over 88,000 dog owners, I’m here to tell you that in the eyes of your dog, observing Rule Number Two is ESSENTIAL in gaining their respect and love. And no, it will not hurt their feelings 🙂 The reason they’re demanding attention everytime you reconnect has nothing to do with showing love. In this blog, I’m going to share what’s behind Rule Number Two and why it’s a crucial foundation for your dog training and dog care journey. Key Takeaways: In the eyes of your dog, observing Rule Number Two is important in gaining their respect and love. Even though our dogs have now become domesticated, they are still trying to test our leadership after every separation. It’s hard-wired into their genes. Not giving attention immediately after separation can be a powerful way of shifting leadership from your dog to you. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules and Rule Number 1 Recap Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules: What Rule Number Two Is Not Rule Number 2 of the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules: Delaying Acknowledgement After Separation The Story of a Dog Who Behaved Better After Getting Delayed Acknowledgement How Rule Number Two of the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules Help You Win Your Dog’s Love and Respect Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules and Rule Number One Recap First of all, let’s talk about the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules before we jump to Rule Number 2. As a recap, the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules serve as the foundation for both managing dog behavior and nurturing a strong, affectionate bond between you and your dog. I made these POWERFUL rules as the backbone of my highly effective Dog Calming Code™ training program. What makes the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules different from other training methods? Unlike the regular training route where the solution is usually to go for a quick fix for certain issues, the Five Golden Rules use dog psychology to uncover the root causes of the most common dog behavior problems. These Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules tap into your dog's natural instincts by helping you THINK LIKE YOUR DOG! LEARN TO THINK LIKE YOUR DOG WITH THE FIVE GOLDEN RULES FROM THE DOG CALMING CODE Remember: You can’t use human psychology, or child psychology, or a general approach to animal psychology. Dogs have a very unique way of seeing things; and this is where the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules come into play. The Five Golden Rules is different from ANY dog training strategy because it doesn’t just address behavior problems — it actually flips who is in charge in the relationship with your dog. By showing leadership to your dog—in a way they understand—your dog immediately begins looking to you for direction and starts to follow your lead. Once your dog starts listening and respecting you, you will start to see the effect of this shift! You will be surprised that this approach challenges traditional dog training by eliminating the need for constant food incentives, shouting or shock collars, or an overwhelming array of tricks. BUT IT’S STILL SO MUCH MORE EFFECTIVE. The Dog Calming Code and the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules promotes genuine understanding and connection — a strong foundation for a successful dog training journey! Rule Number 1: Controlling the Food Recap As discussed in the previous blog, the Doggy Dan Golden Rule Number One is all about controlling the food. It’s important to note that the first rule does not simply talk about “feeding your dog” or “giving treats” but actually “controlling the food.” The first rule uses the power of food to create the right dynamic in the relationship between you and your dog. You might wonder “Can food really do that?” The answer is YES! Why? Because food is NUMBER ONE for our dogs. It is their reason for survival, and their number one motivation! FOOD IS EVERYTHING FOR DOGS! And the one who controls the food and the one that eats first leads the pack. LEARN THE WAYS OF THE GOLDEN RULES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Rule Number One helps establish that by making your dog see you as their number one source of food. You’re the one controlling the food, meaning your dog’s ONLY access to food is YOU. When your dog sees that you’re their number one source of food — not the crumbs and leftovers on the ground, or the scraps of food they’ve hidden underground — they will begin to see you as their life source. Their leader! The one they should respect. And that totally shifts your dog from being the one in charge to one who needs to listen, obey, and depend on you — their leader! Controlling

Food training for dogs is Rule #1 of my Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules, because of this simple truth: when dogs have food, they feel like they’re the richest animal in the world. It’s not their toys, not their new clothes, or their cozy bed that makes them feel great. It’s food. For dogs, it’s all about the food. In fact it’s not just about the food, it’s about CONTROLLING the food. Because FOOD is the most important thing for your dog, it is also THE MOST POWERFUL TRAINING TOOL. It’s dog psychology 101… Food has a DIRECT INFLUENCE on your dog’s behavior and we have to get this bit right before our dogs will start listening and obeying us. As dog owners we may think that as long as we’re buying the food and doing all the feeding, and even using treats for positive reinforcement training, then we’re all good….we must be the ones in control, right? Wrong. I can virtually guarantee you that right now, your dog thinks THEY control the food in your home… If you are letting your dog eat from the bowl whenever they want, letting them chew on bones whenever they want, and if they eat before you do… then THEY are actually in control. And whoever’s in control, is in charge. Which is a bad thing, as I explain below. HOWEVER when done right, food training (or controlling the food) can completely transform your dog and improve their behavior almost overnight. Golden Rule Number One shows you how to convince your dog that YOU CONTROL the food. Key Takeaways: Food has a direct influence on your dog’s behavior and we have to get this bit right before our dog’s will start listening and obeying us. When you put the Five Golden Rules in place, your dog will start to acknowledge you as the Alpha, and they can start to relax. Dogs collect, hide and bury food to keep their control of the food. If they know where even one bone is hidden, they will still think they have the control. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: But First, What Are the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules? Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules: Rule Number One — Controlling the Food — in a Nutshell Rule Number One Sounds Hard, Doggy Dan! But Does Rule Number One Of The Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules Work? Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules: The Role of Food in Dog Psychology Common Myths About Food in Dog Training How the Dog Calming Code and The Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules Help You Tap Into the Power of Food But First, What Are the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules? The Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules are the cornerstone of my training approach. They serve as the bedrock for not only controlling dog behavior—but more importantly—building that solid, loving relationship between you and your dog. The Five Golden Rules are the principles behind my most successful training program, the Dog Calming Code™. (Watch the full video below for my introduction to the Doggy Dan Golden Rule #1) What makes this dog training approach so successful is that it’s not just based on symptom-solving techniques. Yes, it will solve almost every dog behavioral issue, like excessive barking, aggression, jumping up, running away, pulling on the leash and many more, but the way it works compared to traditional dog training is VERY DIFFERENT… How the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules Increase Dog Training Success It identifies the root cause of the behavioral problems—instead of just administering bandaid solutions. It taps into your dog's NATURAL INSTINCTS and helps you THINK LIKE A DOG to discover and solve what’s really going on. The 5 Golden Rules is a revolutionary way of training dogs that defies the traditional methods so many dog owners have tried and failed with. Because it’s based on dog psychology, the method I teach doesn’t require constant food-bribery, or learning hundreds of games or tricks. There’s also no shouting or smacking, and NO SHOCK COLLARS or other torture devices. And the beauty of it is, it won’t take up any more of your time—it just shows you how to do some of things you already do with your dog in a different way, which generates massive results. Yet strangely, it’s a method that very few dog trainers even know. With the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules, YOU WIN YOUR DOG’S MIND FIRST, before any “training”, by establishing the PROPER leadership in your dog’s eyes. You see, when a dog can’t recognize a leader in their home—through dog psychology (not human psychology)—they’re forced to take on that leadership role to ensure their own survival. This is a built-in DNA driven response. The Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules Establishes You As the Leader Now I’m not talking about the kind of leader who buys the food, or whoever can shout the loudest. No, what a dog is seeking are signs that there’s an Alpha present. When you put the Five Golden Rules in place, your dog will start to acknowledge you as the Alpha, as their trusted LEADER, and they can start to relax. They’ll step down from over-protecting the family and property, and being on guard 24/7. They will

Using dog psychology requires a deep understanding that our dogs do not think like us. We love our dogs, and we want to communicate with them and know what they are thinking. But here’s an important truth: dogs do NOT think like humans! dog psOne of the most common dog training and dog care mistakes is that we communicate and relate to our dogs using human psychology. Typically, we view them as young children. This is where everything goes wrong because using human psychology on our dogs can only lead to misunderstandings. By understanding dog psychology, you can help identify the reasons for certain dog behavior such as non-stop barking, running away episodes, and unexplained aggression. With dog psychology, you’ll find solutions to their behavioral issues better because you finally get your dog. So how can you master dog psychology in communicating with and raising your dog? Read on to learn more! Key Takeaways: Dogs don’t think like humans. And if you use human psychology to understand a dog, it can lead to misunderstandings. Your dog has an innate and natural behavior. These natural instincts are there to help dogs be safe and thrive. When you understand dog psychology and your dog’s natural instincts in dog training, you can teach your dogs in a better way. LEARN DOG PSYCHOLOGY BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents Using Dog Psychology to Understand Odd Dog Behavior: The Story of Zippy Dog Psychology: How to Know How Dogs Really Think Top 6 Unique Dog Behaviors Explained Through Dog Psychology Dog Psychology: Five Ways You Can Understand and Interpret Your Dog Better Using Dog Psychology and Dog’s Natural Behavior to Improve Dog Training Conclusion: Dog Psychology is One of Your Biggest Tools in Dog Training! Using Dog Psychology to Understand Odd Dog Behavior: The Story of Zippy My experience with Zippy is what stands out the most whenever I have to emphasize to dog owners how dog psychology benefits both them and their pets. (Watch the video below for Zippy’s story) Zippy’s a lovely dog! You could say that she’s an “almost-perfect” dog. She’s very obedient, she comes when called, she’s relaxed, and she’s the best at potty training. But one day, Zippy began showing odd behavior: SHE WAS CONSTANTLY RUNNING AWAY FROM HOME! Despite putting up a fence, covering holes where Zippy typically goes through — Zippy would still find a way to run off. The story became more interesting when the owners said she would go to another house where a male dog lives. It only made sense when Zippy’s lady-owner said “The same thing happened when I was pregnant last time.” I asked “Are you also pregnant now?” The lady said yes. I immediately knew why Zippy was running away. PUPPY COACH: TRAIN YOUR YOUNG DOGS THE RIGHT WAY WITH THIS TRUSTED PROGRAM! Zippy has always felt that she was the alpha of her “pack” and for her, bearing puppies should be HER role. To her, it was a travesty of justice that some other woman in the pack would be birthing a pup. So in true alpha female fashion, Zippy runs away to another home to build her own pack with another dog. At first, it was a surprising realization for owners. But I explained to them: you have to use dog psychology to really know how dogs think! Dog Psychology: How to Know How Your Dog Thinks Dog owner, it’s important to understand the nature of your dog before you start training them. This effort includes knowing the psychology of dogs, honoring their natural state, and respecting how THEY see the world. You should acknowledge how your dog sees the world BEFORE you impose your human interpretation. Only by doing so can you make a real relationship with your dog built on trust and understanding. Here is some basic info to remember when it comes to learning how dogs think. UNDERSTAND DOG PSYCHOLOGY SO YOU CAN TRAIN BETTER. START WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE. #1: Dogs Act on Instinct and What’s Natural to Them Dog behavior such as barking, or aggression, or even restlessness can be attributed to a dog’s instinctual reactions, NOT just because they’re acting up. Same with other animals, dogs have natural instincts that are there to help them survive. A dog’s instinctive behavior is passed down through genetics and is usually a result of what their breed is genetically-engineered to do. Even as domesticated breeds, dogs will naturally engage in various activities such as hunting, digging holes, shepherding, and barking, all of which serve a purpose and remain part of their inherent behavior. Let’s take a look at some examples. Dogs pee everywhere because that’s what they feel is natural; when they feel the need to pee, they will pee. Our dogs are also very protective. When a dog feels that they are the “pack leader,” their instinct to protect heightens. Barking — one of the dog behaviors that can really get on the nerves of dog owners — is one of the signs that a dog is fierce in protecting the household. In Zippy’s story, she wasn’t running away just because she wants to

What affects dog behavior can be traced back to multiple factors — dog personality, dog-owner relationship, their past history, and even the environment where they live! No dog is ever the same as another — and that’s the beauty of raising them. Each dog has a unique quirk that makes them so lovable. However, in my years as a dog trainer, I have also had dog consultations specifically for certain dog behaviors that were driving owners crazy! “I don’t want to compare, Doggy Dan, but ONLY my dog does this. And I don’t know what’s going on.” Perhaps you’ve felt this, too: your dog showing a different behavior that you feel is unique and causing problems. As dog parents, we just want to know what affects our dog’s behavior — and ways to correct it. But I always believe that before we jump into the solutions, we have to know what influences dog behavior first. The roots. The main cause. Then we shoot for the remedies. If you want to know why your dog acts a certain way, read on. Key Takeaway: As a dog owner, you have the biggest influence in a dog’s behavior, so it’s crucial to always keep your emotions and energy in check. Breed, past history, training, health, and experience with socialization has an impact to your dog’s overall behavior. There’s no such thing as “too old” when it comes to correcting behavior. Your mature dogs can still be taught. LEARN WHAT AFFECTS DOG BEHAVIOR WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: What Affects Dog Behavior: The Story of Frisbee, the Dog Terrified of Flies How Dog Owners Affect Dog Behavior What Affects Dog Behavior: 7 Factors That Influence How Dogs Behave Change Dog Behavior: How to Correct and Improve Dog Behavior Can I Still Improve the Behavior of My Old Dog? How the Dog Calming Code Affects Dog Behavior for the Better What Affects Dog Behavior: The Story of Frisbee, the Dog Who Was Terrified of Flies Dog owners are a dog’s FIRST dog trainers. And I have seen wonderful dog owners who have trained their dogs wonderfully! I have also seen other owners who have trained their dogs to react in ways they couldn’t imagine. In this blog, I will be featuring the story of an ALMOST perfect dog…who had a very odd fear of flies. (Watch the full video below for Frisbee’s story.) Frisbee — the dog — baffled his owners for a dog behavior that was unique to him: he would leap, jump, become restless, and bark non-stop, just at the sight of a single fly. “Doggy Dan, this is such a puzzling dog behavior,” his owner said, “I have never seen a dog as scared of flies as he is.” During the course of our consultation, the owner finally said something that helped me understand what influenced Frisbee’s dog behavior. “Is it possible that our sensitivity to flies made him act the way he does?” his owner asked while showing me the fly swats each family member had. All of them had fly swats! The entire family had their very own fly swats, and would smash away at any fly in the vicinity. It finally made sense! Frisbee’s dog behavior was affected by his household’s strong dislike for flies. The poor dog must have been feeling like a fly invasion is a life-and-death thing! What’s my point to this? I want each dog owner to understand the first factor that affects dog behavior: YOU. INFLUENCE DOG BEHAVIOR FOR THE BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE How Dog Owners Affect Dog Behavior Dog owners, your dog spends more time with you than with anyone else. And it’s understandable considering that statistics say almost 70% of dog owners prefer to spend time with their dogs! That amount of time spent with your dog can significantly affect dog behavior… for good or for bad. How can dog owners affect, change, or influence dog behavior? Check out the list below. #1: Dogs are Imitators — They Copy Dog Owners! Just like in the story of Frisbee, it was his owners who influenced his fear of flies. You see, dogs are great imitators. There was a news article once of a man who developed a limp due to a fall, whose dog suddenly started limping as well. He took his dog to the vet and it turned out that the dog had zero leg issues — the dog was simply mimicking their owner. Our action as dog owners are what affects dog behavior. Because our dogs love us, and are loyal to us, and look up to us, they think that whatever we do IS right. And that could be a big problem if we don’t keep our behavior in check. #2: Your Dog Takes on Your Energy I say this over and over and over again: because you’re always with them, dogs take on your energy, and the energy of their surroundings. And energy is one of the biggest drivers of dog behavior. The emotions that we feel — anxiety, stress, sadness, nervousness, and fear — are apparent to our dogs. They see our emotions and dogs can feed off our energy. Because they take on our heavy emotions, dogs can display negative behavior, like non-stop barking because of anxiety or aggression because of fear. DISCOVER WHAT AFFECTS DOG BEHAVIOR, AND HOW TO CHANGE IT WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE #3:

Can dogs understand humans even if they can’t speak our language? As a dog trainer, I have met thousands of dog owners whose eyes yearn to be told that yes, dogs can understand humans. Dogs don’t speak English, so it’s always a question of whether dogs can truly understand the hugs, or the “I love you!” expressions. Here’s the good news: YES, they understand us! But dogs understand humans differently. It’s amazing. But this beautiful realization also comes with a big responsibility. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: Dogs do not have an automatic understanding of the human language, but they use observation to decipher what we mean. Can dogs understand humans? Our pets have an innate ability to sense and take on energy. As dog owners, we are the ones that are always with our dogs. Because they take on energy, we have to also make sure we keep our emotions and energies in check. LEARN HOW DOGS UNDERSTAND HUMANS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: Can Dogs Understand Humans: The Story of Buster Can Dogs Understand Humans: Can Dogs Understand English? Do Dogs Understand Affection, Hugs, and Kisses from Humans? Can Dogs Understand Humans: How Dogs Feel Their Owners’ Happiness, Sadness, Grief, Fear Do Dogs See Us as Leaders or Parents? 8 Things to Do to Help Dogs with Their Emotional Health Can Dogs Understand Humans: Yes, They Do. All The More Reason To Connect and Communicate With Them In a Healthy, Healing Way Can Dogs Understand Humans: The Story of Buster Buster's story holds a golden lesson because it vividly illustrates the incredible understanding and emotional connection dogs have with their humans. (Watch the video below for Buster’s story.) It also is a great story to answer the question “Can dogs understand humans?” In this particular case, Buster's owner was enduring a tremendously difficult period in her marriage. She confided in me about the mistreatment she and her dog endured at the hands of her husband. Throughout the prolonged ordeal, Buster was a silent witness, absorbing all the negative energy and emotions swirling around him. But one day, when his owner finally decided that enough was enough and it was time to walk away, Buster seized the opportunity to convey a powerful message to her husband. In a deliberate move, Buster headed toward the area where the husband was engrossed in watching something on the TV. LEARN HOW DOGS COMMUNICATE WITH HUMANS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE With a determined gaze, he positioned himself directly in front of the screen and, to everyone's surprise, left a sizable poo behind. Now, I can only speculate, but it seems clear that Buster's gesture was his way of declaring, "We're finished here. This is my parting gift." Throughout the difficult journey, he had been attentively observing everything, and this was his final act to communicate his unwavering support for his owner and his disapproval of the husband's actions. Buster's memorable action serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of understanding and empathy that dogs possess. They have an uncanny ability to perceive and respond to our emotions, even in the most challenging circumstances. In this case, Buster's poignant message conveyed not only his loyalty but also his unwavering support for his owner, leaving an indelible mark on their shared journey. Can Dogs Understand Humans: Can Dogs Understand English? Whenever I tell people about the story of Buster, I’m often asked: “So, Doggy Dan, does it mean that dogs understand our language?” Apart from the question of whether dogs can understand humans, I’m also frequently asked if dogs get the English language. Or just about any other language! A quick answer is this: no. Understanding human language for dogs isn’t a natural talent, but instead a skill developed by constant observation. How Dogs Understand Words Dogs are amazing with familiarizing with words, including intonations and tone. The understanding of dogs is shaped not only by what we say but also by how we say it. CAN DOGS UNDERSTAND HUMANS? YOU CAN HELP YOUR PET WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE. In their quest to understand humans, dogs skillfully interpret both human spoken language and body language. Just like in Buster’s case, the dog knew that the household was on high stress probably because of the shouting, the arguing, and the fear of his owner. Dogs possess a remarkable ability to read beyond our literal words, instead placing greater emphasis on our tone and body language. When trying to understand human words and body language, they attentively focus on us, keenly observing our physical cues. They carefully analyze our facial expressions, posture, and body movements, while also listening intently to the tone of our voice. By combining these various observations, dogs form a comprehensive understanding of our meaning and desires. And then they get us! Do Dogs Understand Affection, Hugs, and Kisses from Humans? What does your dog feel when you nuzzle them close? When you hold them

If you’re looking for ways on how to bond with your dog, I’d recommend focusing on these three pillars: connection, being present, and trust. Dogs have this beautiful reputation of being loyal, loving animals. And they truly are! And creating that connection with dogs through dog communication and bonding with your dog allows you to feel and see how dogs relay their love and loyalty to you. I always say this: to be able to connect with dogs is a privilege. And it’s a privilege I want every dog owner to have. What are the best ways to understand and bond with your dog so you can feel that deep connection with them? Read on to learn more. LEAR HOW TO BOND WITH YOUR DOG WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Key Takeaway: Dogs don’t use words, but they sure communicate with us on a daily basis. We just have to understand how our dogs communicate to get them better. Establishing leadership and trust is crucial to building a solid relationship with your dog. Moreover, it is the first step to truly knowing what they want to say. When your dog is more relaxed because they no longer have to worry about the home or the people and pets they have to protect, they’ll be more open to you. Table of Contents: The Story of Chief: How He Connected With His Dog Owner To Bid His Last Goodbye How to Bond With a Dog to Understand Them Better How to Bond With Your Dog: Understanding Common Body Language of Dogs How to Improve Your Relationship With Your Dog Understanding Dog Connection: Connecting to Communicate On a Deeper Level Conclusion: The Best Ways on How to Bond With Your Dog Start With Truly Connecting With Your Dog The Story of Chief: How He Connected With His Dog Owner To Bid His Last Goodbye I once worked with a lovely dog owner and their dog, Chief. (Watch the full video below for Chief’s story.) He was a strong, active, loving dog, and had grown up alongside his devoted owner. Because they were so close, they have this really POWERFUL connection. In Chief's final days, there was an unspoken communication between them that was deeply felt. While on his way out for his usual walk to the fields, Chief halted and fixed his gaze upon his owner. In that moment, the owner sensed that Chief was bidding them farewell, expressing gratitude, love, and the inevitable need to move on. That experience touched me and continues to tug on my heartstrings because it was a proof that dogs want to talk to us. Because it serves as a poignant reminder of how easily we can overlook our dog’s subtle cues of really, really wanting to communicate with us. BUILD TRUST IN YOUR PUPPIES WITH THE PUPPY COACH™️ PROGRAM How to Bond With a Dog to Understand Them Better What makes Chief’s connection with their owner so, so strong? Just like in our human relationships, we also have to bond with our dogs to help us truly get what they mean with certain gestures. Our dogs can’t use words; but they surely use body language to communicate love, anxiety, fear, satisfaction, and stress. And we have to know them better to avoid confusing the thought that they want to communicate with you. The key to understanding dogs is a mix of establishing with your dog that they can trust you, respect you, and communicate freely with you. How? Read on. My TOP Tip on How to Bond With Your Dog: Let Him Know You’re In Charge In my online program The Dog Calming Code™, I emphasize the importance of being in charge. Of being the pack leader. You take control of the walks, the food, the routine, and the entire training because they need to see you as a leader. Why? Because the dogs are programmed to feel like they’re in charge. And if they’ve take on the role of the protector, creating a strong bond can be difficult. When your dog is more relaxed because they no longer have to worry about the home or the people and pets they have to protect, they’ll be more open to you. Engage in Interactive Play Playtime is not just about having fun; it's also an excellent opportunity to strengthen your bond with your dog. What better way to make strong connections with your dog than in a relaxed and fun environment! Engage in interactive play sessions where you can actively participate with toys, games, and activities that your dog enjoys. Whether it's a game of fetch, hide-and-seek, or puzzle toys that stimulate their mind, the key is to be present and fully engaged in the experience. This shared enjoyment will help tell your dog “You can relax with me, you are safe with me, you can trust me.” KNOW HOW TO BOND WITH YOUR DOG THE BEST WAY POSSIBLE. CHECK THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ NOW. Explore the Great Outdoors Taking your dog on regular walks, dog exercises, or outings in nature is not only beneficial for their physical health but also a wonderful way to bond. One of the benefits of exploring the outdoors with your dog is having the opportunity to start recall training. In my experience, my approach to recall training has allowed me to deepen my bond with my dogs. Recall training in the outdoors has help

There are hundreds of helpful tips on how to make progress in dog training. However, there is only one POWERFUL rule on how to make dog training successful: sending a clear message to your dog. In this blog, we’re talking about the dog training benefits of delivering a clear expectation to your dog, and how sticking to it can massively impact dog training! Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways Consistency in routine, messaging, and activities can significantly predict whether your training will fail or will succeed. Seemingly harmless habits like letting your dog sleep on your bed, or making the dog take the lead are actually harming your training. Professional dog training services — whether done in person or with an online dog training program — can change the direction of your training. DOG CALMING CODE™️: THE TRAINING PROGRAM FOR RAISING CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Table of Contents The Story of Chief: How to Make Dog Training Successful With Rules and Boundaries What Makes Dog Training Successful: Stick To Your Word, Stick To Consistency How to Make Dog Training Successful: 5 Ways to Remain Consistent in Your Training 6 Seemingly Harmless Factors That Make Dog Training Fail and What To Do Instead How to Make Dog Training Successful: Questions to Ask When Dog Training Doesn’t Seem to Work How to Make Dog Training Successful: When to Ask Professional Help Dog Training Video Courses: Getting Guidance From a Professional Dog Trainer in the Comfort of Your Own Home The Benefits of Choosing Online Dog Training Programs How To Make Dog Training Successful: Have a Clear Goal, and a Clearer, Consistent Message The Story of Chief: How to Make Dog Training Successful With Rules and Boundaries If there’s one thing I have learned from working with thousands of dog owners, it is this: furparents do things out of love. And love is a great tool in dog training. However, on the flip-side, love can also be detrimental to a dog’s progress. (I talk more about Chief’s story in the video below. ) Let me share with you the story of Chief. Chief — a dog I had the lovely honor to have a consultation with — was showing challenging behavior to his dog owners. He was stressed, he had behavioral issues, and no training seemed to work. While talking with me, his owner suddenly added “But Jack sleeps with us on the bed. In fact he sleeps on my husband’s head!” Now, if you’re familiar with my dog training principles, you would know that hearing her words was a lightbulb moment. AHA! I knew exactly what the root of the problem was. Chief felt he was in charge. No matter how lovingly his dog owners care for him, he still felt in charge. And even though the decision to let Chief sleep on the bed was done out of love, it truly affected how the training was working for the family. ESTABLISH LEADERSHIP IN THE EYES OF YOUR DOG WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™ What Makes Dog Training Successful: Stick To Your Word, Stick To Consistency “Leaders walk the talk… and they keep walking.” – Tejraj Singh Anand I read that quote a few days ago, and I felt like it communicates clearly why inconsistencies make dog training fail. Just like raising kids or leading a team, those that we need to guide will believe us if we send clear, consistent expectations. #1: A Successful Dog Training Includes Consistency With Your Message Consistency is key when it comes to successful dog training because dogs thrive on routine and clear communication. One common mistake that can hinder progress is sending mixed signals to your furry friend. You’re training them to not scratch on the furniture, but you may not be using timeouts when they do. You want your dogs to see you as a leader, but your actions could be telling your dog “I can boss this human around!” Successful dog training stars with a clear, consistent message — one that you 100% stick to. Make sure everyone involved in the training process — including family members and housemates — is on the same page. Consistency in the commands, gestures, and expectations will prevent confusion and provide a solid foundation for your dog's learning. THE DOG TRAINING PROGRAM THAT CHANGES THE WAY YOU TRAIN YOUR DOG! #2: Dog Training Success Comes With a Routine Aligned to Your Goals A well-planned and consistent routine provides structure and clarity for both you and your dog. Additionally, a great routine paves the way to effective learning and progress. Not having a consistent messaging and routine during dog training can lead to confusion, frustration, and hindered progress. Dogs rely on clear communication and structure. Inconsistency can result in mixed signals, behavioral issues, and a lack of trust between you and your dog. The first step in creating a routine is to define your training goals. What specific behaviors or commands do you want your dog to learn? Are there any particular challenges or behavior issues you need to address? By clearly identifying your objectives, you can tailor your routine to focus on the areas th

In the perfect world, the best dog recall training concludes with you able to let out a call and a whistle and your dog rushing towards you. But that’s not always the reality. Our dogs love to explore — sometimes leaving a significant gap between us and them. That kind of independence is good! But it’s anxiety inducing when your dog becomes too far from you and you aren’t sure your call can make them come back. It’s important that before we let our pets roam freely, we need to assure that wherever they are and whatever that do, with just one call they’ll come back to you. The foundation of teaching recall training to dogs is this: your dog should know that you calling out to them is ALWAYS a good thing. How do you practice dog recall that makes your dog come back to you every time? Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: There’s power in giving random treats to your dog when you’re doing recall training. When recall training, you have to trust your dog that he will come back to you when you call. Giving clear and consistent commands can increase the success of recall training. DOG CALMING CODE: TEACHING DOG OWNERS TRAIN DOGS BETTER Table of Contents: What Makes Dog Recall Training Fail AKA Why Your Dog Isn’t Listening To You How to Teach Dogs Recall Training with Treats – Tips From a Top Dog Trainer The Power of Giving One Clear Command How to Improve Recall Training with a Professional Dog Whistle 9 Dog Recall Training Rules That Will Change How Your Dog Reacts To Your Call Factors That Make Recall Training for Dogs Not Work How Long Does Recall Training Take? Daily Activities for Recall Training for Dogs Conclusion: Recall Training is Your Call! What Makes Dog Recall Training Fail? AKA: Why Your Dog Isn’t Listening to You “Dan, I try calling and whistling and my dog isn’t responding. I have to chase him to ensure he’s safe and get him home.” This scenario is common to me: dog owner starts recall training and doesn’t get any results. Dogs ignore recall training by not responding, or running away even more. But what makes dogs not listen to recall? What makes a recall not work at all? The answer is this: dog recall training fails when owners don’t build confidence in dogs that being called in is always A GREAT THING. START TRAINING PUPPIES WITH THE RIGHT FOUNDATION. START WITH THE PUPPY COACH™️ PROGRAM. As A Dog Trainer, My Biggest Dog Recall Training Tip Is To Only Use Recall For Rewards And Not For Punishments The best way on how to recall train a dog is to make the recall really good news. Helping your dog associate recall with perks can make training easier. (I talk about my unconventional strategy in the video below.) When they are called in, it should always mean REWARDS; be it hugs, treats, or play time! Once we have established positive association with recall, it will be much easier to call our dogs in. Since Your Dog Will Be Distracted By The Outdoors, You Have To Make Sure Your Recall Has Something Exciting To Offer Another rule I have for a successful recall training is this: always making sure that my dogs will get a treat or a reward THAT THEY LOVE! The outdoors is exciting! Our dogs will be busy chasing around birds and jumping on puddles. We have to make sure that when we use the whistle or the call, we have something that they love! They’ll come running to us EVERY TIME with this strategy. A BETTER WAY TO START DOG RECALL TRAINING? START WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ How to Teach Dogs Recall Training with Treats – Tips From a Top Dog Trainer Over the years, I have learned of a super successful strategy for recall training that made dog owners say “Wow! Dan, you totally made him come back!” Will you be surprised if I tell you my recall training is inspired by the slot machines at the casino? How to Use Treats in Recall Training: What Works the Best Like what I mentioned above, you need to remember the two things that make recall training work: a.) Dogs need to know that when you call, it’s always for something good. b.) They should know that if they come, a delicious treat is waiting! Now here’s my Number #1 tip: GIVE RANDOM REWARDS. People Keep Coming Back to the Slot Machines Because of the Jackpot. You Can Use This In Rewards for Recall Training Before I start recall training for dogs, I always let my dogs see the rewards they’re going to get when they come to me. It’s like letting them know “There’s a jackpot here!” In a bag, I would have my dog’s favorite treat. Let’s say they like chicken. I would mix it in with other great treats like cheese and bacon. Then I would let my dog smell the bag to let him know a treat is waiting for him when he comes back. PUPPY COACH™️: DOGGY DAN’S PROGRAM FOR TRAINING PUPPIES THE RIGHT WAY. Give Their Favorite Treats Randomly “But Doggy Dan, will my dog like it if I don’t give my dog his favorite treats every time?” One of the biggest misconceptions when using treats in dog recall training is that the more we give them their favorite treat, the more they wil

A safe space for dogs is synonymous to a human being’s place of refuge — it’s a spot where they retreat from stressors or relax from a long day. As a dog trainer, I know that our dogs are susceptible to exhaustion, emotional and mental stress, and even anxiety. Stressors all around them can be too much. A dog’s safe space is like our pet’s personal space where they can feel truly safe. Yes, all dogs — no matter the personality and energy levels — can benefit physically, mentally, and emotionally when there’s a safe space for them. In this blog, I will share why safe spaces for dogs are important, and how you can build one for your beloved pet. Key Takeaways Dogs love sleeping. They need rest to grow and thrive. A safe space can help give a more ideal place for your dog’s rest and retreat. Crate is a great option for a safe space, but it’s not the only option. Forts, tents, and even an entire room are effective. Safe spaces come with mental, physical, and emotional benefits! START TRAINING PUPPIES WITH THE RIGHT FOUNDATION. START WITH THE PUPPY COACH™️ PROGRAM. Table of Contents Safe Spaces for Dogs: A Dog Trainer’s Perspective Why Dogs Need a Safe Space Benefits of a Safe Space for Dogs What are Examples of The Best Safe Spaces for Dogs? When to Put Your Dogs in their Safe Space How to Create a Safe Space for Dogs Things to Include in Your Safe Space for Dogs How to Make a Safe Space Really Feel Safe Safe Spaces for Dogs: A Small Change That Creates a Big Difference Safe Spaces for Dogs: A Dog Trainer’s Perspective What many people do not realize is that dogs absolutely adore sleeping and resting. Sleep and rest are vital components of their overall well-being, particularly for young and energetic dogs who are still growing and thriving. In fact, the connection between sleep and safe spaces for dogs is so strong. (You can learn more from the video below.) Just imagine the impact on their physical and mental health if they return from a long, tiring walk only to find themselves stressed, fatigued, or overwhelmed with no dedicated space to retreat to. Because dogs need refuge, I always encourage dog owners to provide a designated safe space exclusively for dogs. This special area should solely be reserved for them and off-limits to others so they can recharge, relax, and find solace whenever they need it. FROM WELL-TRAINED PUPPIES TO WELL-TRAINED DOGS. TRANSITION WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️. Why Dogs Need a Safe Space ​​Because our dogs are perpetually exposed to situations that can cause a sense of unease and vulnerability, a safe space is needed. Loud noises such as fireworks or thunderstorms can trigger fear in dogs. Encounters with unfamiliar individuals invading their personal space or entering their home can wire up our pets, making them feel always on the edge. When the triggers are too much, it is a need that our dogs have a place they can call their safe haven. “But Doggy Dan, my dog has a crate. Does this mean I should build another safe space for my dog?” While a crate can serve as a safe space for some dogs, it's not the only option. The idea behind creating a safe space is to provide a designated area where your dog feels secure and comfortable. PUPPY COACH™️: THE PROGRAM TRUSTED BY THOUSANDS OF PUPPY OWNERS. This space can be a specific room, a cozy corner with their bed and toys, or even a modest area enclosed with a baby gate. The key is to create an environment that caters to your dog's specific needs and triggers, where they can retreat to when they need a sense of security and calm. When it comes to a safe space for dogs, this is the general rule: above all, make the room feel as safe as possible. Benefits of a Safe Space for Dogs “Should I really make a safe area for my dog?” I’ve heard this question a thousand times, and I totally get it. Safe spaces for dogs can feel like an extra step… but it’s an extra step worth taking. A Dog Safe Space Benefits Their Physical Health From lowering stress levels to giving your dogs a more rejuvenating rest, here are some ways a safe space benefits dogs physically. Physical Benefit #1: By Removing Potential Hazards and Ensuring a Secure Environment, You Can Prevent Accidents and Injuries Dogs can be prone to exploring and getting into mischief, so a designated safe space helps minimize the risks they may encounter in your home. Physical Benefit #2: A Dog-safe Space Allows for Proper Exercise and Play In addition to protection, our dogs will also have ample room to move around freely, stretch their legs, and engage in physical activities that promote their physical fitness. With an area exlusively for them, dogs can have more opportunities for play and exercise. TRAIN YOUR GROWING DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️. Physical Benefit #3: A Safe Space for Dogs Allows Them to Have a More Rejuvenating Rest A safe space for dogs goes beyond providing physical security, it also allows them to have a more rejuvenating rest, too! A designated area where they feel

Timeout for dogs is a powerful dog training tool that enforces correct behavior WITHOUT hurting your relationship with your pets. As a dog trainer, I am a big advocate of timeout for dogs as a way of discipline. In my training, I value connection before correction. I absolutely know that shouting, scaring, and threatening our puppies and dogs to obedience can only work so much. But I get it — training puppies and dogs can be hard and frustrating so furparents often resort to the old ways because nothing seems to work. This blog aims to remind you, dear dog owner, that there’s a powerful tool that you can still use: TIMEOUTS. In this blog, I’m going to talk more about timeouts, how to do it right, and how to make them truly work for your dogs. Key Takeaways: You can discipline and train your dog without using force or threatening them. In fact, this form of discipline is more effective. You can make timeouts more effective by understanding the foundation for timeouts including the appropriate time duration, and how to do timeouts with love. Dogs respond fast. Calm and consistent consequences is your powerful partner to ensuring negative behavior is stopped. DOG CALMING CODE: THE TRAINING PROGRAM FOR RAISING CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Table of Contents: Timeout for Dogs: How Timeout Taught a Dog to Stop a Bad Behavior Do Timeout for Dogs Work in Improving Dog Behavior? The Truths About Timeout for Dogs That Dog Owners Should Understand Timeout for Dogs: Things to Know Before Starting the Process When to Start Giving Timeout for Dogs Timeout for Dogs: How to Make Timeouts Effective Best Benefits of Timeout for Dogs and Dog Owners Timeout for Dogs: How to Communicate Love to Dogs Even While on Timeout Timeout for Dogs: How Long Should Timeouts Be? Conclusion: Timeout for Dogs Can Be Your Powerful Partner in Training Your Dog and Encouraging Correct Behavior Timeout for Dogs: How Timeout Taught a Dog to Stop a Bad Behavior I worked with a dog who had this habit of chewing wires. Check out the full video below for the story. Now chewing wires is not just generally unsafe for Jack, the dog, but it also posed a risk for damages. The first time Jack chewed on the wires, I quietly took him into the bathroom and left him for a few minutes. After the first timeout, Jack continued to head over to the wires. Calmly, I once again led him to the bathroom. After he got out of the second timeout, he looked at the wires then looked at me as if saying: “I’m going to try again to see if you’re really putting me in timeout because of this.” He went to the wires for the third time. However, after the third timeout, he caught on: he was placed in the bathroom because he was chewing the wires. When he came out, he totally stopped going to the wires. It was a beautiful thing to witness! PUPPY COACH: START TRAINING YOUR PUPPIES WITH THE PROGRAM THAT HAS HELPED THOUSANDS Do Timeouts for Dogs Work in Improving Dog Behavior? In my years as a dog trainer, I have stopped multiple bad behaviors without raising my voice or threatening dogs. But it’s understandable that dog parents — like you — hesitate to give timeouts for puppies and dogs. “Doggy Dan, is leaving my dog alone really going to work?” To answer that, let me share a quick analogy. Timeouts for Dogs are Like Timeouts for Kids Raising a dog is similar to raising a child in many ways — they're both naturally curious and adventurous. However, as parents would know, shouting or telling off a child does not always work. It can lead to arguments, tears, and lots of negative emotions for both the parent and the child. While I believe that boundaries and consequences are important for children, I don't condone the use of fighting, shouting, or hitting. The same holds true for dogs. Teaching good behavior and correcting bad habits can be stressful, but adding more stress doesn't help. In fact, in my previous blog about dog anxiety and stress, I explained that when dogs are agitated, it's harder for them to learn. That's where timeouts come in. Timeouts for dogs is an effective dog training method where you correct negative behavior by helping the dogs understand that certain habits have consequences that they will not like. There's no need to shout, hit, or show dominance. Your dog will learn what they're doing wrong, and it will be a less stressful experience for both you and your furry companion. CALMER DOGS START WITH THE RIGHT TRAINING. START WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE. The Danger with Fear-Based Obedience in Dogs During consultations with dogs, owners usually come to me and say: “But Doggy Dan, do we still need to give dogs timeout to discipline them? They’re obeying pretty well when I raise my voice.” Dogs can obey out of fear, and out of knowing that disobedience will mean hitting. However, when a dog’s obedience is based on fear, it would be harder for you to sustain that obedience or earn your dog’s trust. And without trust, it will be difficult to train dogs. Dogs will grow up an

Potty training puppies is every pet owner’s rite of passage. Along with all the cuddles and playtime comes the inevitable challenge of potty training. It can be a frustrating and messy process, leaving many dog owners feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. cute jack russel puppy playing with toilet paper. | Photographer: Georgiy DatsenkoAs someone who has trained dog owners how to survive and thrive in their puppy-potty-training-journey, I’m here to help. My Puppy Coach program and FREE Potty Training Course were inspired by each dog owner’s journey from frustration to confidence! And I’m sharing some of the big tidbits with you in this blog. Key Takeaways: Potty training puppies before they get older can help make your training more effective. Shouting, getting angry, punishments, and even indulgence are detrimental to potty training puppies. Treats plus positive reinforcement can do wonders to your potty training experience. MORE ABOUT POTTY TRAINING PUPPIES IN DOGGY DAN’S PUPPY COACH PROGRAM! Table of Contents: The Importance of Potty Training Puppies Early Potty Training Puppies: How Long Does It Take to Train Them? Different Methods and Tools That Make Potty Training Puppies Fast Can You Potty Train 8-Week-old Puppies? How Early Can You Start? Common Mistakes to Avoid When Potty Training Puppies How Do I Stop My Puppies From Peeing In The House? Potty Training Puppies: How To Instruct Puppies To Tell You They Have to Pee How to Use Treats the Right Way When Potty Training Puppies What Are the Best Treats for Potty Training Puppies? How Positive Reinforcement + Treats Help in Potty Training Puppies Conclusion: A Successful Potty Training for Puppies Start with YOU The Importance of Potty Training Puppies Early How early is early in puppy potty training? Some puppy parents feel that they have to wait until the puppy is a couple of months old before introducing potty training. It’s an assumption I totally understand: when dogs are pups, they may look too young and vulnerable to be doing any actual training with them. But here’s a puppy fact I want every dog owner to know: your puppy’s brain is like a sponge. The younger they are, the more they can absorb information. This fact has actually inspired me to make a schedule for potty training 8 week-old puppies that I recommend to fur dads and moms. Another plus: younger puppies have not yet caught negative habits that might interfere with your training. By starting early, you can take advantage of this prime learning period and make potty training a smoother, more effective process. START TRAINING PUPPIES WITH THE RIGHT FOUNDATION. START WITH THE PUPPY COACH™️ PROGRAM. Potty Training Puppies: How Long Does It Take to Train Them? I consider this a legitimate question. Pee accidents are a serious business, so it’s easy to want to squeeze the duration of the entire potty training journey in a month. However, when it comes to training young puppies to use the potty, PATIENCE IS KEY. Which also means riding the potty training up from four months to a year. You’re Not Just Teaching Your Puppies to Potty the Right Way — You’re Teaching Trust, and Right from Wrong “Why can’t I finish everything in a month, Doggy Dan?” Puppy potty training is more than just teaching your dog where to potty, and how to potty right. In fact, everything begins with your relationship with your puppy. The level of trust between you and your furbaby will influence the length of your potty training journey. You need to first build trust, routine, familiarization and recognition, then consistency. It will take a while, but if you stick with it, the steps will work out. DOGGY DAN’S FREE GUIDE FOR POTTY TRAINING PUPPIES. CLICK TO LEARN MORE. Different Methods and Tools That Make Potty Training Puppies Fast “But is there any way for me to ensure that my puppy learns fast?” Here’s a MAJOR puppy potty training realization I have learned through the years: YOU — dog owner — hold the key! Most of the time, it’s not the training that is long and slow. Sometimes, dog owners are in so much hurry, they make training difficult and complicated for their dogs. If you really want to help your puppies learn potty training fast, here are some tips — and tools — to have. Methods and Tools #1: Build Trust with Your Puppy To effectively potty train your puppy, it's important to establish a relationship of trust and respect. Remember that your puppy is just a baby, and may not yet understand what is expected of them. Take the time to get to know your puppy, and let them get to know you. FROM WELL-TRAINED PUPPIES TO WELL-TRAINED DOGS. TRANSITION WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️. Play with them, give them treats, and make sure they feel safe and loved. When your puppy trusts you, they'll be more willing to learn and follow your lead. Methods and Tools #2: Have the Right Tools When it comes to potty training puppies, having the right tools can make all the difference. Invest in a good quality crate or pen, as

I cannot emphasize enough how the skill of knowing how to calm dogs down can go a long way for dog owners wanting the best for their pets. As a dog trainer, I always emphasize the calmest dogs are the happiest dogs. When your dog’s body becomes less stiff, they settle peacefully in one corner, and their breathing regulates—there’s just no better sight. But there’s so much advice and tips out there about helping dogs calm down that I totally understand if you feel unsure, uncertain, or overwhelmed on what to do. Calming dogs down is a passion I have as a dog trainer. I actually have a dog calming course called The Dog Calming Code™ to help calm dogs down! I believe that when our dogs have a period of time to regularly unwind, take a break, and enjoy alone time to let off steam, it will TREMENDOUSLY benefit them—physically, mentally, and emotionally. In this blog, you will learn how to calm your dogs, how to reduce their stress, and how to help them find ways to release stress. Key Takeaways: One of the major causes of stress in dogs comes from the dog assuming the role of leadership. Quiet times can help your dog switch off and de-stress, so it’s important that they have them. Dogs can absorb a great deal of stress from us, their dog owners, so we should be careful with our energies, too. CALMING DOG DOWNS START WITH KNOWING THE IMPORTANT BASICS. START NOW WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️. Table of Contents: How to Calm Dogs Down: What I Learned From Car Rides With My Dogs Signs That Tell You Your Anxious Dogs Need to Calm Down How to Calm Dogs Down: Why Your Dog Is Stressed How to Calm Dogs Down: Taking On the Role of the Leader Doggy Dan, How Can Your Dog Calming Code Course Help My Dog? Help Dogs Relax With Alone Times and Breaks Calm Dogs Down With Their Own Retreat Corner How to Know If Your Dog Has Calmed Down How to Calm Dogs Down: 7 Best Tips to Reduce Stress and Anxiety in Dogs Dogs Absorb The Energy of Dog Owners… So Be Calm, Too Conclusion: Wondering How to Calm Dogs Down? You Might Need to Take a Step Away How to Calm Dogs Down: What I Learned from Car Rides with My Dogs My dogs adore my ute (pickup truck with a canopy on the back)! Whenever I feel like my dogs need a break, I just make them hop inside the back of the vehicle, and drive around with the windows down. Car rides calm my dogs down because they always hop off my ute significantly relaxed — and YES! — happy. All I do is prepare the back of the ute by adding pillows and blankets all around, just to make my dogs feel comfortable. I let them feel the wind, and after a while, they become less tensed, their breathing becomes more steady, and they look almost sleepy! Seeing firsthand that my dogs respond positively to car rides taught me three things. Lesson #1: There Are Free Solutions That Can Help Your Dogs Relax, De-Stress, and Calm Down A simple—but free!—solution such as a car ride can really help our dog’s mental and emotional health. During one of our car rides, I asked myself “What makes these car trips so relaxing for our dogs?” THE PROGRAM THAT HELPED MORE THAN 80,000 DOG OWNERS KNOW HOW TO CALM DOGS DOWN THE RIGHT WAY. LEARN MORE HERE. And the answer: my dogs get their moment to simply turn off the world. No home to guard. …or strangers to worry about. …no overwhelming environment! All they enjoy in the ride is fresh air and a moment of blissful calm. Lesson#2: Apart From Knowing How to Calm Dogs Down, We Should Also Know When to Calm Them Down Now this part is important as it’s easy to misinterpret our dogs. Sometimes, we look at our hyperactive, jumpy dogs and think “Oh, they’re probably just being playful.” However, in reality, they’re actually so stressed. Knowing the cues when to calm dogs down can spare your dogs from stress exhaustion! Signs That Tell You Your Anxious Dogs Need to Calm Down Is your dog simply rowdy or already exhibiting signs of stress and anxiety? Here are common signs to look out for. Sign #1: Excessive Panting Dogs will often pant heavily when they are stressed or anxious, so take excessive panting as a common sign that your dogs need a break. Sign #2: Barking Barking is a common sign of stress in dogs, as it is their way of expressing their anxiety or fear. Sign #3: Hiding If your dog is hiding and trying to avoid you, this could be a sign that they are feeling stressed and need some extra attention and comfort. Sign #4: Trembling When dogs are feeling scared or overwhelmed, they may start trembling or shaking as a physical response to the stress they’re feeling. Sign #5: Pacing If your dog starts pacing around in circles or back and forth, this could be a sign that they are feeling anxious and need some help calming down. A CALM DOG STARTS WITH A CALM PUPPY. TRAIN PUPPIES THE BETTER WAY WITH THE PUPPY COACH™️. Sign #6: Chewing on objects Dogs who are feeling stressed may start chewing on furniture, toys, or other objects in an attempt to soothe themselves. Sign #7: Excessive licking When dogs feel overwhel

Dog communication is one of the impressive skills that seem to come naturally to dog owners. I’m mindblown by the idea that even though our dogs do not talk, they have this amazing capacity to let their needs be known. Through their gestures, and actions, and sounds, our pets help us learn how dogs communicate. Our dogs want us to understand them! As a dog trainer, I always emphasize to dog owners that one of the best ways to raise and love a dog starts with understanding them. In fact, I have included some of the best practices for communicating with dogs in my Dog Calming Code and Puppy Coach programs. Dogs may not speak our language, but they have their own unique ways of telling us what they need. It's up to us as their owners to learn to read those cues and respond to them with love and compassion. And this blog is here to help you with that. Key Takeaways: Our dogs communicate with us through small, easy-to-miss signals. Dog owners should be sensitive with dog communication. When your dog knows that you understand them, their trust towards you increases. In turn, your bond becomes stronger. Dogs communicate love, hunger, discomfort, anxiety, and frustration through different ways. MASTER DOG COMMUNICATION WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: Jack Needs a Blanket: What My Dog Taught Me About Dog Communication Understanding Dog Communication: Why It’s Important to Know How Dogs Communicate How Do Dogs Communicate? 10 Common Gestures and Actions That Dogs Use to Talk to You Dog Communication Through Vocalization Does Their Personality Affect the Way Dogs Communicate? Dog Communication Cues: Common Ways Dogs Communicate Anxiety Dog Communication Cues: Common Ways Dogs Communicate Hunger Dog Communication Cues: Common Ways Dogs Communicate Discomfort Dog Communication Cues: Common Ways Dogs Communicate Love How to Have Better Communication With Your Dog: Dog Communication Tips Dog Communication: Small Gestures with a Big Message Jack Needs a Blanket: What My Dog Taught Me About Dog Communication As an experienced dog trainer, I have seen countless instances where dog owners struggle to catch their dogs' messages, especially when their pets are uncomfortable. It breaks my heart to see these dogs suffer in silence because there’s misunderstanding despite dog owners doing their best. I myself have gone through a similar struggle. My dog, Jack, is a big and tough Catahoula leopard dog. At one glance, you’d think that Jack can handle everything! One winter day, despite his resilience, I noticed that he was shivering even though he was wearing his jacket. BUILD TRUST IN YOUR PUPPIES WITH THE PUPPY COACH™️ PROGRAM At first, I couldn't understand what was wrong with him! After all, he had his coat on, right? But then I realized that I needed to think like a dog to truly understand his needs. I immediately got Jack a warm blanket, and as soon as he snuggled up in it, his shivering stopped. The look of relief on his face melted my heart, and I realized just how important it is to pay attention to our dogs' messages, especially when they're uncomfortable. For me to understand Jack, I had to do something: communicate with a dog by thinking like a dog. Understanding Dog Communication: Why It’s Important to Know How Dogs Communicate Dogs communicate through a variety of non-verbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and vocalizations. Understanding these cues is essential for building a strong bond and trust with your dog. Have you ever seen the eyes of your dogs lighting up when you get what they want to tell you? Oh the wagging tails and the excited jumps that seem to say “Hurrah! You understand me!” But apart from the joy of communicating with your dogs, there are also other big reasons why it’s crucial for you to know how dogs communicate. The list below includes several reasons why learning to understand dog communication is a skill every dog owner must have. UNDERSTAND YOUR DOGS BETTER WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Knowing How Dogs Communicate Can Prevent the Negative Effects of Misunderstanding Dogs Let’s take this example: your dog is thirsty and they want water. However, you read their actions as boredom. So you pour toys in front of them, but no water. It’s going to be no surprise if your dog ends up feeling frustrated and desperate! They’d probably say “Does mom/dad really get me?” Misunderstanding your dog's communication can lead to frustration, confusion, and even aggression. By learning to read your dog's body language and other signals, you can avoid misunderstandings and build a strong relationship and stronger trust. Knowing What Your Dogs Truly Want to Communicate Can Help You Meet Their Needs Dogs have different ways of expressing their needs and wants, and understanding their communication can help you provide for them better. For example, a dog who is pacing and whining may need to go outside, while a dog who is cowering and avoiding eye contact may be feeling scare

Every time your dog runs, leaps, and gets through obstacles, it’s not only their muscles that benefit — the best exercises for dogs help build their brain power, too. Here’s a dog trainer perspective: the best exercises for dogs rank high in the top needs that dog owners should give to their pets. I have witnessed dogs become sharper and quicker in picking up instructions, and more agile in navigating obstacles. In this blog, I’d like you to understand that dog exercise ticks off two goals with just one activity — a healthier body for your dog AND a smarter, quicker brain. All the more reason to take your dogs outdoors to enjoy even just a few minutes of walking, running, playing in the park, and even doing some agility training. If you want to know more how exercise directly affects your dog’s brain development, dive in. Or shall we say… leap in! Key Takeaways: Exercise does not only benefit your dog’s body — it’s a powerful tool in training dogs to be quicker, sharper, smarter. Breed, age, build, and health conditions affect the type of exercise your dog can do. When dogs don’t get an adequate amount of exercise, their mental health is affected, too. LEARN HOW TO CREATE BETTER ROUTINES FOR YOUR DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: Best Exercises for Dogs: How Outdoor Activities Made My Dogs Happier and Smarter How Movement and Dog Exercises Benefit Dogs’ Brains What Are the Best Exercises for Dogs? What Are Recommended Exercises for Dogs That Benefit Their Brain? Agility Training and Obedience Training: Best Brain Training Exercises for Dogs Why Variety is Important in Dog Exercises Signs to Look Out for When Doing Dog Exercises Which Dog Breeds Need the Most Exercise? How Often Should Dogs Exercise? Best Exercises for Dogs You Can Do Indoors Conclusion: Your Pet Deserves a Routine That Includes the Best Exercises for Dogs Best Exercises for Dogs: How Outdoor Activities Made My Dogs Happier and Smarter Dogs love walking. In fact, walking is a natural need for them. Even my dogs crave the adventures we get when we exercise outside our home. I talk about this topic extensively (plus some actual footage of my dogs basking in the sun and enjoying their time outdoors) in the video below so don’t forget to check it out. The best dog exercises have not only bonded my dogs in such a strong way. A consistent walking routine with my dogs allowed me to see their development when it comes to understanding my commands, handling stress and anxiety, and bonding with other dogs. How Movement and the Best Dog Exercises Benefit Dogs’ Brains As a dog trainer, I can tell you with absolute certainty that the best exercises for dogs are incredibly important for a dog's mental and physical health. I have worked with dog owners who saw how exercise changed the way their dogs deal with anxiety, socialization, and lack of stamina. Exercise can do wonders for dogs! With that being said, we can also say that not having an adequate amount of exercise can bring negative effects in the long run. Let’s talk more about this truth below. What Does Lack of Exercise Do to Dogs? Dogs are natural athletes and need to burn off their excess energy through physical activity. Without enough exercise, they can become bored, anxious, and even destructive. In fact, research has shown that lack of exercise can lead to a variety of behavioral problems in dogs, such as aggression, hyperactivity, and anxiety. Exercise has been shown to have a positive effect on the development and function of the brain in dogs, which can lead to increased intelligence and cognitive abilities. MAKE DOG EXERCISES LESS STRESSFUL WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ What Happens to Your Dog’s Brain When They Exercise From increased blood flow to the brain to the release of "feel-good" hormones, there are numerous ways that exercise can benefit your dog's mental and physical health, and even their relationship with you. #1: Best Exercises for Dogs Improve Your Dog’s Mood When a dog exercises, their brain releases a variety of chemicals, including endorphins and dopamine, which can improve mood and cognitive function. Additionally, physical activity has been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, which can improve memory and learning. #2: Your Dog Becomes a Better Problem Solver Studies have also shown that dogs who engage in regular exercise are better able to handle stress, and have improved problem-solving abilities. This is likely because exercise helps to reduce anxiety and promotes a sense of well-being. Certain types of exercise, such as agility training, can help to develop a dog's problem-solving skills and improve their ability to make quick decisions. This can translate to better performance in other areas of their life, such as obedience training or even just everyday interactions with their human family. So, not only does exercise benefit a dog's physical health, but it can also have a positive impact on their cognitive abilities and intelligence. By in

If you're anything like me, your furry companion means the world to you—and your dog’s stress relief is a big deal. But have you ever felt helpless and unsure when you see your dog experiencing stress? It can be heartbreaking to watch them struggle with anxiety, just like humans do. There are many factors that can trigger stress in dogs – changes in routine, loud noises, separation anxiety, and yes, even our own behavior can impact their mental health. As pet owners, it's our responsibility to recognize the signs of stress and take action to help our furry friends feel more at ease. In this blog post, I'll delve into the topic of dog stress relief, exploring the causes of anxiety and how we can help our dogs cope with it. I'll provide practical tips and small steps that you can take to ensure your dog lives a happier, more relaxed life. By the end of this article, you'll have a deeper understanding of why it's crucial to care for your dog's emotional well-being and how you can make a difference in their lives. Let's work together to help our furry friends feel safe, calm, and loved. Key Takeaways: Dogs take on their owner’s energies so it’s important that owners have reduced stress levels as well. Dog owners can work closely with vets for the best help for dog and stress relief. Meditation, exercise, positive reinforcement, and spending quiet time with your dogs can help a lot. KNOW HOW TO HANDLE DOG STRESS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: Dear Dog Owner, Do You Know That Dog Stress Relief Starts with You? Stress Relief for Dogs: Signs of Stress in Dogs That You Should Look Out For The Four Fs of Dog Stress Dogs Stress Reliever: What Vets Recommend for Dog Anxiety and Stress Relief What Naturally Calms Dogs and Reduce Dog Stress Stress Relief and Dogs: How to Promote Dog Mental Health Remember, Dear Pet Owner, Dog Stress Relief Begins with a Stress-free Owner Dear Dog Owner, Do You Know That Dog Stress Relief Starts With You? Like what I have previously mentioned in the past article about taking the lead from your dog when choosing a vet, dogs FEEL energy. In fact, dogs mirror us. Take a moment to recall how your dogs react during the times when you were stressed. Were they fidgety? Did they show increased clinginess? Were they barking non-stop? Our dogs can feel it if we are stressed so that is why I tell dog owners that if they want stress relief for dogs, they need to start with being calm and stress-free themselves. Keeping our stress levels in-check, and remembering that our stress affects our dogs is one of the best first steps to dog stress relief. Stress Relief for Dogs: Signs of Stress in Dogs That You Should Look Out For Stress can manifest in your dogs in a variety of ways, some of which can be quite subtle. I always encourage dog owners to pick up these signs immediately to alleviate a dog's stress. Here are some critical signs of stress in dog to help you know if your dog’s on the edge. Excessive Barking You dog may bark excessively if they are feeling anxious or stressed. If your dog is barking more than usual, it could be a sign that they are under stress. Aggression A stressed dog is a protective dog. Your dog can become aggressive, especially towards people or animals they perceive as a threat. Changes in Appetite Is your dog not eating their favorite treats? Are they showing a loss of appetite on food they regularly enjoy? Dogs may eat more or less than usual when they are stressed or when they’re anxious. DOG TRAINING = LESS DOG STRESS. GET THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Hiding If your dog is feeling stressed, they may hide away from people and other animals. This behavior is especially common in dogs that are afraid of loud noises or have separation anxiety. Excessive Licking Dogs may lick themselves excessively when they are feeling anxious or stressed. The Four F’s of Dog Stress and Anxiety The 4 F's of stress in dogs are also important to understand. They stand for Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fidget. These are natural responses that dogs have when they feel threatened or stressed. Fight When dogs feel stressed, they may become aggressive and ready to fight. This can manifest in behaviors such as growling, biting, or lunging. If you notice your dog showing signs of aggression, it's important to remove them from the situation and seek professional help. Flight On the other hand, some dogs may try to flee or escape when they feel stressed. This can involve running away or trying to hide. Dogs may also try to seek refuge in a small, enclosed space such as under a bed or behind furniture. REDUCE PUPPY STRESS WITH PUPPY COACH™️! Freeze When dogs feel overwhelmed or threatened, they may also freeze in place. This can manifest in behaviors such as standing still, holding their breath, or staring intensely at the source of stress. Dogs may also show a lack of interest in their surroundings or seem disconnected from their environment. Fidget Finally, some dogs may fidget or display

Good dog food and the dog’s name: two of the most important decisions a pet owner needs to make. Their name will last a lifetime and their food will determine how long that is.I trust that naming your dog was a fun, thoughtful exercise, but most dog owners still seem to be in the dark when it comes to confidently knowing what to feed their furbabies. Not only is the choice overwhelming, but now there’s so much mystery and hidden truths surrounding the “perfect dog food,” that makes choosing the best options even more challenging. In this blog, I’m sharing with you the truth about what brands popularly market as the “perfect dog food,” and why variety is king when it comes to feeding dogs. Key Takeaways: Giving one food to your dogs may not be the best for their health. Dogs give cues on what they want to eat. Take their cues and use it as a guide on what to feed them. Variety is king when it comes to a healthy dog diet. DOGGY DAN’S DOG CALMING CODE™️: HOW TO RAISE CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Table of Contents: The Truth About Good Dog Food That the Pet Food Industry Does Not Want Dog Owners to Know Why I Don’t Believe That There’s Only One Good Dog Food For Our Pets Best Dog Food: How to Tell If You’re Choosing the Best Food for Your Dogs How to Start Incorporating Good Dog Food to Your Dog’s Diet The Benefits of Giving The Right Dog Food for Your Dogs Conclusion: The Best Dog Food is the One Your Dog Needs at a Given Moment The Truth About Good Dog Food That the Pet Food Industry Does Not Want Dog Owners to Know When I was younger, I loved eating spaghetti bolognese that I’d often say “I can eat this everyday!” Spaghetti bolognese looks like a decent daily meal — it has protein, carbs, and delicious tomato sauce. I could probably eat pasta everyday, but can you imagine what could have happened to me if I ate only that? Just like us, our pets are complex, and every dog comes with unique needs in nutrition. Here’s the truth: despite the fancy marketing from giant companies, calling a formulated product “the only healthy dog food you will ever need” just doesn’t make sense. In Reality, There Are BIG Reasons Why a Dog Diet Without Variety Can Affect a Dog’s Health Every type of dog food has a different nutrient profile, and feeding the same thing continuously can cause a dog to miss out on essential nutrients that are present in other types of food. Let’s take the raw food diet for dogs, as an example. It has loads of benefits (here’s an article about the benefits of feeding raw dog food) but it’s not always a common choice among pet owners. A one-food diet can decrease interest in food, making it challenging to get them to eat or to try new foods. Giving a variety not only ensures a diverse nutrient intake, but it also makes mealtime more enjoyable for the dog. Additionally, dogs becoming overly familiar with ingredients are more prone to intolerances or allergies. Relying on one option alone can actually be risky. Why I Don’t Believe That There’s Only One Good Dog Food For Our Pets Even for someone who loves pizza and pasta, a chicken soup becomes appealing when they’re feeling under the weather. Bodies are programmed to crave for nutrients — even for dogs! This is the exact reason why I don’t believe on giving one dog food for your pet their whole life. I believe that for different life stages, there are also different nutrient needs. The reason we have all kinds of dog food — wet, dry, mixed — and even a dog food diet with just lean, fresh meat is because our dog’s diet needs are complex! I do understand that having one food option sounds more convenient. But if we want to give a healty dog diet for our beloved pets, giving our dogs nutrion-packed meals based on their needs can make a difference. CALMER PUPPIES TURN INTO CALMER DOGS TRAIN RIGHT WITH PUPPY COACH™️ How to Tell If You’re Choosing the Best Food for Your Dogs Creating a diet for your pet can be a daunting task, but there are several things you can do to become more confident the best dog food you have chosen. #1 Consult with a Veterinarian Your veterinarian can provide valuable insight into your dog's nutritional needs based on factors such as their breed, age, weight, and health status. They can also recommend specific brands or types of dog food that may be best for your dog. #2 Read the Ingredient List Look for high-quality protein sources, such as meat or fish, listed as the first ingredient. Avoid dog foods that contain a lot of fillers, such as corn or wheat, as these can be difficult for dogs to digest and provide little nutritional value. You can also consider going for an all-natural meal. Adding natural ingredients like vegetables can bring big health benefits for your dogs. #3 Look for Food Certifications Refer to certification for products that meet nutritional requirements. Look for dog foods that have been certified to ensure they provide a complete and balanced diet. #4 Consider your Dog's Preferences Even if a dog food meets all t

Is pet insurance worth it?Hey fellow dog owner, I understand it’s easy to be at a crossroads regarding pet insurance. Thousands of caring and protective pet owners have asked me that very question. I’m finally sharing what I tell dog owners who ask for pet insurance advice in this blog. With pet insurance marketed as a need and a must, should every pet owner get it? Read on for the answer. Key Takeaways Pet insurance is optional, but there are big factors that make it a must. Your budget plays a great role in making the decision whether or not you get pet insurance for your dogs. Large and pedigree dogs need pet insurance because they are more prone to emergencies and expensive general care costs. RAISE CALMER PUPPIES WITH DOGGY DAN’S PUPPY COACH™️ Table of Contents Pet Insurance Worth It or Not? Here’s My Story Three Factors That Make Pet Insurance Worth It Two Factors That Make Pet Insurance Optional Should I Really Get Pet Insurance for Large and Pedigree Dogs? Is Pet Insurance Worth It? Ten Things to REALLY Consider Before Getting One Is Pet Insurance Worth It? The Answer Depends On What You Need Pet Insurance – Worth It or Not? Here’s My Story I love my dogs and every dog that comes to us is family. Because I’m also a protective pet owner, I opted for pet insurance for $500 a year for two dogs. The insurance spanned ten years and cost roughly $5,000. Yet, after paying for the hefty dog insurance cost, I don’t think I have been able to make a claim that made me feel like I have made the most out of the insurance. If anyone comes to me asking, “Should I get pet insurance for my dog?” I give this general answer: it really depends on so many factors. I won’t immediately say, “Yes, get it!” because not all pet owners can shell out $250 a year for pet insurance. I won’t also say, “No, don’t bother!” because pet insurance benefits are also good. So many factors and considerations come into play in deciding if pet insurance is worth it, and I’m sharing them all with you in this blog. TRAIN DOGS THE BETTER WAY WITH DOGGY DAN’S DOG CALMING CODE™️ Three Factors That Make Pet Insurance Worth It How do you know if your pet needs pet insurance? Should you get one just because your vet tells you to do so? Other pet owners telling you it’s a must? Because popular influencers are all about pet insurance? Getting pet insurance is a major decision that should be based on WHAT YOU REALLY NEED. To help you make the decision whether or not to get dog insurance, consider these three important factors. Factor #1: Your Financial Capacity for Emergencies You can never tell when your dog might need a $5,000 treatment or operation. If you can’t afford to spend $5,000 just for a single emergency, consider getting pet insurance. Having pet insurance for emergencies allows you to give proper care for your pet whenever they need it. Factor #2: Your Peace of Mind Makes Pet Insurance Worth It You can purchase insurance policies that cover various types of medical treatments and procedures, including emergency care, surgery, and medication. If having a ready resource for emergencies give you assurance and peace of mind, pet insurance is worth it. By having pet insurance, you can feel secure knowing that they will not have to make difficult decisions about your pet’s needs based on financial constraints. Pet insurance is worth it because it eliminates stress and worry of unexpected veterinary bills, which can be expensive and difficult to manage. Factor #3: The Breed and Size of Your Dogs It's hard not to feel the weight of the expenses when caring for a big or pedigreed dog. The costs can add up quickly leaving you feeling anxious and uncertain. But don't worry, you're not alone. Studies have shown that these dogs are more prone to health issues, making it even more important to prioritize their care. CALMER PUPPIES TURN INTO CALMER DOGS. START NOW WITH PUPPY COACH™️ I know it's tough to hear, but if you have a larger or pedigreed dog, chances are you'll be spending more than the average pet owner. That's why pet insurance is a no-brainer because for bigger dogs, pet insurance is worth it. It's like a safety net, protecting you and your furry companion from any unexpected health issues that may arise. Investing in pet insurance can bring a sense of comfort and relief because it gives you a cushion to fall back on in case of any tragic events. It's all about providing the best possible care for your beloved pet while reducing the financial burden and stress that comes with it. Two Factors That Make Pet Insurance Optional While pet insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for pet owners, it is ultimately a personal decision based on individual circumstances and preferences. It is not mandatory and pet owners can choose to self-insure or pay for veterinary expenses out of pocket. Here are three factors that can help you cross—without guilt!—pet insurance off your list of pet care must-haves. Factor #1: You Have the Budg

The best flea treatment for dogs is something every dog owner needs to discover and master. Because fleas are sneaky — what could start as a small flea problem can quickly become an infestation. Now, I have a couple of dogs at home, and there was a time when we found ourselves dealing with a HUGE flea problem that did not seem to go away. During this time, I tried and tested several dog flea treatments and solutions. Experimenting with several flea remedies helped me understand a couple of things about the BEST flea treatment for dogs, and the TRUTHS about pour-on flea solutions. Since the flea treatment industry is one of the most lucrative in the market, not all the facts will be out there. I hope that this article can help you find the flea treatment that’s right for your dog(s) and your home. Key Takeaways: The best treatments for fleas may not be the most popular or the most expensive. You should also give more affordable options a try. There are truths that the the $6-Billion flea treatment industry may not always disclose to consumers Flea bombs offer a more affordable but more effective solution to flea problems. IMPROVE YOUR DOG’S BEHAVIOR FAST WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: My Experience With Pour-on Flea Treatments for Dogs Three Truths About Pour-On Dog Flea Treatments That The $6-Billion Industry Does Not Tell You Why I Consider Flea Bombs Effective and Safe Flea Treatment for Dogs Why You Should Solve Your Dog’s Flea Problems with Effective Flea Treatments… Fast My Experience with Pour-on Flea Treatments + Are They Really the Best Flea Treatment for Dogs? Just thinking about our previous flea problem that started our search for the best dog flea treatment already makes me feel icky. During that time, fleas were everywhere — on our dogs, on the couch, kennel, beds, and the carpet. The infestation not only bothered us, but also made us feel sorry for our dogs because they were skin irritations and infections, and even hair loss! We were so eager to get rid of the flea problem once and for all that we decided to get those expensive pour-on flea treatments. What Are Pour-on Flea Treatments for Dogs? Pour-on flea products are topical flea treatments applied directly to the skin of a pet. These products usually contain insecticides that work to kill fleas and other parasites on contact. PUPPY COACH: THE NEW APPROACH TO PUPPY TRAINING WITHOUT THE STRESS Pour-on flea products are often more expensive than other flea treatments because they contain a potent combination of insecticides that target fleas at every stage of their life cycle. For the pour-on treatments to work, you need to directly apply it onto the skin. The active ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream, providing long-lasting protection against fleas. Pour-on flea treatments promise to kill adult fleas on contact, prevent flea eggs from hatching, and eliminate flea larvae in the pet's environment. This flea treatment for dogs remains a popular choice among dog owners. But is it the best choice? Why I Stopped Using Pour-on Treatments for Dog Fleas We went for the pour-on because we thought the price was a guarantee that it would work All along, I thought “Ah, well, this one’s expensive. I bet this is good.” After several months of using the product, we decided to switch it for something else. It was not only the steep price that bothered me. I became increasingly concerned about the potential risks associated with these flea treatments and decided to explore alternative flea prevention methods. Three Truths About Pour-On Flea Treatments for Dogs That The $6-Billion Industry Does Not Tell You When it comes to flea treatments for pets, there are three truths that the industry might not be telling you. Truth #1: Many of These Treatments for Dog Fleas Can Be Incredibly Expensive. While pour-on flea treatments are often the most popular option, they can cost a small fortune, particularly if you need to treat multiple pets. Unfortunately, these expensive treatments won't always deliver the results you'd expect. Truth# 2: Many Pour-on Dog Flea Treatments are Still Ineffective in Eliminating Fleas. Pour-on flea treatments are often ineffective because they only target fleas on the surface of the pet's skin, leaving the fleas in the environment to continue to reproduce and infest the home. Most fleas are found in the pet's environment, such as their bedding, carpet, or furniture. These areas are difficult to reach with pour-on treatments, and even if you manage to kill all the fleas on the pet, new fleas will emerge from their cocoons and start the infestation cycle anew. Even if you pour a higher amount, there’s a big chance you won’t still be able to remove fleas completely. GET PUPPY COACH™ & NEVER FEEL LOST WITH YOUR PUPPY TRAINING Truth #3: Buying Flea Solutions for Dogs That are Poured on Your Pet Can Pose a Health Risk The active ingredients in some flea treatments can cause a wide range of side effects, from mild

Finding the best vet for your pet is saying yes to a partnership that will make a significant impact on your dog’s health. Making this choice matters! When my pets show signs of health issues, I race straight to a vet. I have complete trust and respect for these professionals. However, after my fair share of vet trips, I can say from experience that not all vets are the same! Not all vets in your area will be compatible with you or your pet. Since we’re putting our dogs’ health on the line, we can never be too careful when finding the best vet. In this blog, we’re going to talk about my experiences with vets, why choosing a vet can be a journey, and things to consider when making this big decision. Key Takeaways Don’t put all your trust in one vet. Explore your options until you find the best dog veterinarian that matches you and your pet. It’s not wrong to ask for a second opinion, especially regarding your dog’s treatment plan. Many vet red flags can help you filter your options right off the bat. FROM MISBEHAVING TO TRANQUIL DOGS: TRY THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents My Journey to Finding the Best Vet: My Personal Experiences with Two Different Veterinarians When Should I Start Finding the Best Veterinarian for My Dog? How to Find the Best Dog Vet: 7 Factors to Consider Questions to Ask When Choosing a Vet Are There Vet Red Flags I Should Be Aware Of? Conclusion: You Can Be Picky With Your Vets. Your Beloved Pet’s Life Is On The Line. My Journey to Finding the Best Vet: My Personal Experiences with Two Different Veterinarians I’ve worked with several veterinarians in my life, but these two stories will always stand out. Why? These experiences taught me something: finding the best vet that matches your pet’s care needs can take a lot of trial and error, and it’s crucial to go through the trials and errors early. If you’re in the process of looking for the best vets for your dogs, I hope these stories can help. Story #1: Finding the Best Vet Helped Me Save $4,000 Vet visits are expensive! I’m sure I’m not the only one making a guesstimate of the total fees before we reach the pet doctor’s office. After bringing Inca to her vet, we learned she had a ripped cruciate ligament. An operation to correct this issue would cost $4,000. For Inca, I was ready to dig deep, find the $4K, and go for it. Fortunately — and this is what made the mark — the pet doctor told me that because of Inca’s small size, we could opt for no surgery without worrying about Inca being in pain or getting worse. After getting reassurance, we decided not to go for surgery. Inca didn’t get worse, and she lived for another five years. Things could have been different if the vet had not told me I had an option! The surprise on my face could have told him I was surprised, but it was such a good surprise! I’m grateful for that veterinarian who truly cared for Inca and her owners! Story #2: I Was Told My Cat Has Cancer! Until I Went To a Holistic Vet I had a cat suffering from lethargy, hair-loss, and significant weight loss. My frantic wife pleaded with me to take her to a good vet. So, I took my cat to the vet where she underwent several tests. After rounds of tests, we were told that our cat had cancer and would need expensive chemotherapy that would cost us $3,000. However, something inside me didn't feel right. I don’t think my cat has cancer, I thought to myself. So, I decided to seek a second opinion from a holistic vet. The holistic vet quickly identified the problem as an ingredient in my cat's food. They recommended natural supplements and a chicken and rice diet. Within just 48 hours, my cat had doubled in weight and went on to live for another five years! I asked the holistic vet about cancer, and he assured me that my cat did not have it. This experience taught me the importance of being careful in choosing the right veterinarian for my pet. This pet food dilemma reminded me of my Podcast on Integrative Dog Medicine Providing Natural And Safe Vet Care with Dr. Judy Jasek. We talked about why your dog and cat food can be sneaky culprits! When Should I Start Finding the Best Vet for my Dog? If you are a pet owner, it is essential to find the right vet before any emergency arises. Waiting until your furry friend is sick or injured can lead to a frantic search for a vet and a rushed decision on your part. By finding the right vet early on, you can establish a relationship with them. This helps make you feel comfortable and confident when seeking medical attention for your pet. Look for a vet that is conveniently located, has flexible hours, and has experience treating your pet's species and breed. Reading reviews from other pet owners can also provide valuable insight into a vet's reputation and level of care. Don't wait until an emergency occurs; choose the right vet early. RAISE YOUR PUPPY THE RIGHT WAY WITH PUPPY COACH™ How to Find the Best Dog Vet: 7 Factors to Consider #1: Choose a Vet That Makes You Feel at Home with Their

Healing Dogs with Cannabis, Mushrooms, and the Endocannabinoid System – with Angela Ardolino Today’s Guest Angela Ardolino: I’m so excited to introduce to you today’s guest, Angela Ardolino, who is a holistic pet expert that focuses on supporting the endocannabinoid system – our built-in healer of the body – with natural medicines, including cannabis and mushrooms. A holistic pet expert and educator who’s been caring for animals for over 20 years, Angela owns and operates Fire Flake Farm, which is an animal rescue farm, as well as two locations of her natural pet salon and shop, Beautify the Beast. Angela is helping change the outcome of scary, painful, and often life-ending illnesses for pets. Are you knowledgeable on all the options available for your furbaby? Be sure to tune into my latest podcast to learn more!! You’ll Hear About [01:15] Who is Angela Ardolino [03:30] Angela’s story [07:40] What are full-spectrum medicinal plants? [10:15] The importance of a COA [18:30] The endocannabinoid system [19:45] Nina’s Story [23:45] Benefits of CBD products [28:50] The downfall of modern vet medicine [35:30] Where to find Angela’s products How You Can Get Involved Want to try CBD for your own dog? Try my own branded product based on years of research where I sought out the best products with the very best people behind our ingredients – Doggy Dan’s Angel Oil – and use the code revealed in the podcast to get 20% off! Links & Resources Website: https://angelaardolino.com/ Mushroom tinctures: https://yournaturaldog.com/pages/mycodog-mushrooms Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngelaArdolino/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/angelaardolino Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournaturaldogstore/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSA9aPbbiuKHKb0xNPbzjhQ Your BONUS for tuning in to this month’s podcast: Get 20% off Doggy Dan’s CBD Products Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan 🙂

Beautiful End-of-Life Pet Hospice Care and Peaceful Passing with Dr. Dani McVety Today’s Guest Dr. Dani McVety: I’m so excited to introduce to you today’s guest, Dr. Dani McVety, who has dedicated her career to helping families provide end-of-life care and euthenasia for their furbabies. Dr. McVety founded the Lap of Love Veterinary Hospital just three months after graduating from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.Since that time she’s grown the service from one veterinarian herself to a nationwide network of more than 250 doctors and a full-time interdisciplinary support staff dedicated to making the end-of-life experience for pets and the people that love them as dignified and peaceful as possible. Nearly half a million families have benefited from Dr. McVety’s vision–and she continues her work helping to educate families on their options and pick the best end-of-life plan for their pets. Do you have a plan to give your animal a beautiful and peaceful goodbye? Be sure to tune into my latest podcast to learn about your options! You’ll Hear About: [01:15] Who is Dr. Dani McVety [02:10] Dr. McVety’s Calling [10:00] The Unfortunate Urgency of End-of-Life Care [12:00] Peanuts Story [16:00] Epidural Analogy [17:50] How Animals Handle Death [23:50] Jack’s Story [35:00] Inca’s Story [43:00] Transforming Grief Into Love [48:00] Learn More About Lap of Love [49:00] Pet Loss Support Group Links & Resources Website: https://www.lapoflove.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lapoflove Twitter: https://twitter.com/LapofLoveVets Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lapofloveveterinaryhospice/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Lapoflove Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lap-of-love-veterinary-hospice Your BONUS for tuning in to this month’s podcast: Get 20% off Doggy Dan’s CBD Products Watch Lap of Love video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqG5yD2I4TA Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan

Dr. Rob and the Magnificent Properties of Medicinal Mushrooms for Dogs Today’s Guest Dr. Rob: I’m so excited to introduce to you today’s guest, Dr. Rob, who has 40 years of clinical experience treating small and large animals with diet, acupuncture, and medicinal mushrooms. Dr. Rob graduated in 1982 from Colorado State’s College of Veterinary Medicine. He established one of the first integrative vet clinics in the USA in Boulder, Colorado in 1993. Since then he’s become a nationally recognized expert in veterinary herbal and nutritional medicinal mushrooms, veterinary CBD, and cannabis therapeutics. Over the years he’s seen the incredible impact of including mushrooms in your pet’s diet for long term health. Today his mission is to help educate other vets and dog owners about the ability to prevent devastating diseases with mushrooms – a common vegetable found in most people’s refrigerators! Curious to hear why mushrooms are so incredible at healing and how Dr. Rob uses them? Be sure to tune into my latest podcast! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10p_7bQhTBc You’ll Hear About: [01:15] Who is Dr. Rob [04:30] Dr. Rob’s Holistic Experience [09:00] Three Types of Mushrooms [13:20] A Mushrooms’ Long History with Humans [17:20] Mushrooms: A Functional Food [21:50] Mushrooms and Allergies [23:00] Immune Response and Mushrooms [26:50] Mushroom Feeding Resources [29:30] Fantastic Fungi [30:00] The Complex Mushroom Lifecycle [34:00] Adaptogens and What Mushrooms can Heal How You Can Get Involved Follow the links below to learn more about Dr. Rob and the benefits of mushrooms! Check out Real Mushrooms and see how YOU can include mushrooms in your dog’s diet to promote health and longevity… and, they make products for HUMANS too! Links & Resources Podcast Show: Vet Talk with Dr. Rob Silver: https://vettalkwithdrsilver.podbean.com/ Real Mushrooms: https://www.realmushrooms.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmushrooms YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=dr+rob+silver Your BONUS for tuning in to this month’s podcast: Get 20% off Doggy Dan’s CBD Products https://shop.theonlinedogtrainer.com/doggy-dans-angel-oil-cbd-dcc-n/ Check out Dr. Rob’s Monthly Q&A https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTvZH5zaTME Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan

Animal Communication Expert Annie Bourke Shares Fascinating Stories From Animal Perspectives Today’s Guest Annie Bourke I’m so excited to introduce to you today’s guest, Annie Bourke, who has spent the last 10 years as an animal communication expert and medium. Annie discovered her ability to talk to animals as a little girl, having conversations with her little ginger cat as if it was no big deal. After the passing of her cat, Annie realized she had missed an opportunity to learn more about her feline companion and felt the calling to learn more about animal communication. Today Annie has fully tapped into her ability to communicate with animals and has been an animal medium for over 10 years. She supports animal parents to better understand their animals through having an animal conversation and finding out what’s going on in their world, particularly with behavior or health issues. Her skills are also helpful to bereaved animal parents as they navigate through the grief process to reach peace of mind through connecting with their animals’ souls and spirits, and asking questions that the parents want answered. If you’re curious to hear Annie’s incredible stories and learn more about her work now as an animal communication expert, be sure to tune into my latest podcast! You’ll Hear About: [01:15] Who is Annie Bourke [03:00] Annie’s Story [06:00] Proof of Animal Communication [09:00] Rumpleteaser [14:00] Soul Lessons [22:30] Peanut’s Story [26:00] Talking to Animal Souls [31:50] Beautiful Crocodiles [32:30] Rescue Dog Story [34:00] Dog Haunting [41:00] Annie’s Animal Communication Books How You Can Get Involved If you’re grieving the loss of a pet and would like to find out how they’re going on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge then get in touch with Annie. Who knows? Your pet may be planning to come back to you in another body! Perhaps you have a dog with some behavioral or health issues that you’re struggling to understand? … then contact Annie. Simply provide a photo and some questions and Annie will be able to help you gain a better understanding of the problem, and uncover what your dog needs to help overcome the difficulties your dog is experiencing. Learn more about communicating with animals by reading her two books, The Bridge to Animal Consciousness, and The Guide to Spiritual Awakening. Links & Resources Website: https://www.cosmicheartintuitive.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CosmicHeartIntuitive/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniebourkecosmicheartintuitive/ Email: [email protected] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiWk7nu1K8skogPonW9_nhQ Your $1 trial of The Online Dog Trainer: https://theonlinedogtrainer.com/calming-the-emotions-of-over-excited-dogs-trial-1-3-37-70/ Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VjcdgMZY_8 Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan

What Our Pets Experience After Their Time On Earth With Us — with Karen Anderson, Pet Loss Specialist Today’s Guest Karen Anderson: I’m so excited to introduce to you today’s guest, Karen Anderson, an award-winning animal communication expert and Pet Loss Specialist. Karen’s incredible journey began when she was working as a deputy sheriff and was helped by various animal companions to find wanted criminals who were on the run. Since this experience she’s written two bestselling and award-winning books, called the Amazing Afterlife of Animals and Hear All Creatures. Today, she’s a Pet Loss Specialist and offers animal communication courses for all levels, to unlock the door to your journey. And she’s the founder and CEO of a nonprofit animal sanctuary, Painted Rain Ranch. If you’re curious to hear Karen’s incredible stories and learn more about her work now as an animal communication expert and pet loss specialist, be sure to tune into my latest podcast! You’ll Hear About: [01:30] Who is Karen Anderson [05:00] The beginning: Karen’s Deputy Career [07:00] The Cat By the Shed [10:30] Childhood Animal Communication Gifts [14:30] The Deer and the Logs [22:00] Peanut’s Story [26:30] The Root Of Dog Behavior Problems [31:30] Why All Dogs Should Be Followers [37:30] The Afterlife [47:30] Where to Access Karen’s Pet Loss Specialist Teachings [50:10] Jack’s Story How You Can Get Involved If you’re grieving the loss of a pet then download Karen’s App: Pet Loss Hope & Healing. Learn more about communicating with animals by reading her two books, The Amazing Afterlife of Animals, and Hear All Creatures. Considering becoming an animal communicator yourself? Sign up to Karen’s course via her website. Links & Resources Website: https://www.animalcommunicating.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenAndersonCoachAuthor/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/TalksToPets YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChOmcZsA09F0IAC8CB8W5fw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-a-anderson-b395aa5/ My blog post about how Jack responded when Peanut passed: https://theonlinedogtrainer.com/a-dogs-amazing-ability-to-understand-life-and-death/ Dogs seem to know… See Jack’s intuitive reaction to Peanut’s passing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lu8LTEmspPc&t=303s Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on TODT App / iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan

Judy Morgan – The Truth About Spaying and Neutering Today’s Guest Judy Morgan: I’m so excited to introduce to you today’s guest, Dr. Judy Jasek, an incredibly seasoned integrative pet care provider who focuses her work on natural and safe approaches to animal care. Dr. Judy has had an incredible career and was voted 2018 Woman of the Year in the Pet Industry, 2019 Pet Age Woman of Influence, 2019 International Association of Top Professionals Veterinarian of the Year and IAOTP 2020 Woman of Influence. She’s an internationally renowned speaker and best selling author of four books on holistic pet care and dog nutrition and has been featured on hundreds of radio and television shows worldwide, using traditional Chinese medicine food therapy. All of this being said, the thing I admire most about Dr. Judy is her willingness to shift her approach to animal care as new research becomes available to ensure not only her pets, but her clients’ pets, can live the longest healthiest lives possible. If you’re curious about the topic of spaying and neutering and want to learn more about what you can do to give your pup the best shot at a healthy life, be sure to tune into my latest podcast! You’ll Hear About: [01:00] Who is Dr. Judy Morgan [05:00] Dr. Judy’s Personal History with Spaying and Neutering Dogs [06:45] A Dramatic Change in Spay and Neuter Best Practices [08:00] The Overpopulated Shelter Epidemic [10:00] The Effects of Spaying/Neutering Too Early on Large Dogs [15:30] The Effects of Spaying/Neutering Too Early on Small Dogs [16:15] Shocking Facts Regarding Cancer, Arthritis, and Other Issues [18:30] Dr. Judy’s Educated Approach to Spay and Neuter [21:00] Intact Males and Marking [24:00] Intact Dogs and Aggression [29:00] Raw Foods Impact on Health and Behavior [32:00] Spay/Neuter and the Endocrine System [36:00] Learn More About Dr. Judy’s Best Practices How You Can Get Involved Want to learn more about keeping your dog in the best health? Study with Dr. Judy Morgan: https://www.drjudyu.com. … and of course, if you’re thinking of having your dog spayed or neutered, consider waiting until they’re fully grown to make sure those growth plates have closed. Research your dog’s breed to find out when their primary growth period has finished, and be a responsible dog owner – be sure to prevent any unplanned litters. Having said this, everyone’s situation is different. Weigh up whether you can manage an in-tact dog when making this decision. Links & Resources Website: https://drjudymorgan.com Study with Dr. Judy Morgan: https://www.drjudyu.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judymorgandvm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DrJudyMorgan Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/integratedpets YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrJudyMorgan Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on TODT App / iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan

Dr. Judy Jasek: Integrative Dog Medicine Providing Natural And Safe Vet Care Dr. Judy Jasek is a veterinarian with 35 years of practice experience who specializes in integrative medicine. She believes in a whole-body approach to healing, focusing on species-appropriate nutrition, whole-food supplementation, detoxification, and addressing the underlying causes of disease. Dr. Judy's areas of expertise include cancer treatment and prevention in pets. She recently relocated to Tennessee with her husband to start a rural homestead and continues her practice using telemedicine to help pets worldwide. Her work is founded on supporting the natural healing ability of the body, and preventative care, which starts well before a pup receives their first round of vaccinations. If you’re curious about Dr. Judy’s approach to whole-body wellness in her canine patients, be sure to check out this podcast! You’ll Hear About: [01:00] Who is Dr. Judy Jasek [02:30] Dr. Judy’s Mission [07:20] Health Care vs Disease Management [10:00] The Dog Food Dilemma [12:30] The Cure for Itchy Dog Skin [15:00] Damaging Vaccine Schedules [20:20] The Truth Regarding Dog Allergies [21:00] Healing the Gut [22:15] All About Vaccines [24:30] Should You Neuter Your Dog? [28:00] Chinese Medicine [32:00] Treating Cancer with Mistletoe [36:00] Ozone Treatments [43:00] Natural Flea Treatment [50:00] How to Learn More About Dr. Judy’s Work How You Can Get Involved Are there ways you can avoid putting toxic substances in YOUR dog’s body? Consider switching from processed food to natural whole food. Rethink those “annual” vaccinations, and do research to check if those monthly preventatives are required year round, or even at all, in your locality. Does your dog have chronic health issues? If so, then contact Dr. Judy Jasek at ahavet.com to book your Zoom appointment from anywhere in the world, and know that you will get the best possible advice for helping your pet to live their best, healthiest life. Links & Resources Website: https://ahavet.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/animalhealingartsco/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjTsZy6pDqRXMkR8EKBcZw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animal.healing.arts/ Podcasts: Dr. Judy is a regular guest on The Raw Dog Food Truth podcast show. Watch this on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUY3m_OKlLM Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on TODT App / iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan

Amanda Matoske: Building True Rapport With Natural Dog Training Today’s Guest Amanda Matoske: I’m so excited to introduce to you today’s guest, Amanda Matoske, a kind, gentle dog trainer that has based her training career on the incredible teachings of dog training legend, Kevin Behan. In 2014, Amanda read Kevin’s book, Your Dog Is Your Mirror, and her life was changed forever. Since that time, she’s trained under Kevin and his apprentices, utilizing their mentorship to learn the art of building true rapport with any dog. In 2018, she left her 10 year career and committed to training dogs full time. If you’re curious about the incredible method that Amanda uses, this is a podcast you don’t want to miss! You’ll Hear About: [01:00] Who is Amanda Matoske [03:00] How Amanda’s Approach to Training is Different [04:50] The Story of Kevin’s Training Approach [08:30] This History of Domesticated Dogs [10:50] Kevin’s Training Theory [11:40] Push Training Tactic [18:00] Collecting Exercise [22:00] Speak Training Tactic [26:30] Protection Training Story [28:30] The Similarities Between Horses and Dogs [31:50] Rub-a-Dub Training Tactic [34:00] Bite and Carry Training Tactic [40:30] Get More Info on Natural Dog Training Links & Resources Website: https://naturaldogtraining.com/ Natural Dog Training Study Group https://naturaldogtraining.com/studygroup/join/ Facebook: http://facebook.com/naturaldogtraining Instagram: http://instagram.com/naturaldogtraining Twitter: http://twitter.com/naturaldog YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/quantumcanine Book: Your Dog is Your Mirror Watch this on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPNhiJTnBW Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on TODT App / iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan

Susan Thixon: The Scary Truth Behind Dog Food Labels Today’s Guest Susan Thixton: I’m so excited to introduce to you today’s guest, Susan Thixon, an incredible pet food advocate who’s working hard to help keep animals safe at meal time. Unfortunately, Susan’s work started due to the loss of her beloved pup who developed cancer after eating food that was designed to be able to stay on shelves for 30 years. This tragic incident fueled Susan’s passion for doing her best to help provide the public with insight into what their dogs are actually eating. During this podcast episode, Susan and I share a few fascinating stories regarding pet food, and, Susan provides incredibly helpful insight into how pet parents can determine what foods are safe to give their furbabies. If you’re curious about whether your pet food makes the cut, this is a podcast you don’t want to miss! You’ll Hear About: [01:00] Who is Susan Thixtson [02:10] Susan’s Story [06:00] The Dangers of Ethoxyquin [07:00] Pet food Industry Tricks [07:50] Decomposed Meat Secrets [10:00] The Dangers of Bacteria [13:00] Susan’s Biggest Pet Food Concerns [20:30] What Can Consumers Do to Ensure Safety? [23:00] Doggy Dan’s Story [26:00] Resources for Pet Food Education [32:30] Susan’s Resources How Can You Get Involved Visit Susan’s websites to find out what’s really in the food you’re feeding your pets, and support her vital work by subscribing to Susan’s Petsumer Report. Learn about the laws governing pet food in your country. Consider switching to a natural raw diet. Supplement any processed diet with eggs, fish, mince, raw meaty bones and organs. Links & Resources Website: https://truthaboutpetfood.com Website: https://www.petsumerreport.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TruthaboutPetFood Twitter: https://twitter.com/TAPF YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0p3KKhy7epJJyc2avWZjvQ Pet Fooled Docufilm Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3hMjQD5T9c Watch this on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mWvgUVxhAE Learn more by tuning into the podcast! Thanks for listening—and again, don’t forget to subscribe to the show on TODT App / iTunes / Spotify to get automatic updates. Cheers, ~Doggy Dan