There’s a lot of excitement centered on getting that new dog or puppy. We dream of the adventures we’ll pursue together and the deep bond that’ll be built for years to come. As a dog owner and trainer, when I think about what characteristics I want to instill in a dog or puppy, three things come to mind. I want to develop a happy dog, a good dog, and dog that loves me.
Earlier this week, I was working with my dog, Dot, on some advanced training. Overnight she went from having an awesome training session where I though we turned the corner on some things, to going in the complete opposite direction. One thing we can easily overlook as dog owners is, just like people, dogs have off days.
We expect a lot out of our adventure dogs and their bodies. We hike, fish, trail run, and mountain bike with our canine companions at our sides.
The next episode of our Mitkof Island adventure series begins at the base of a majestic peak known as Crystal Mountain. The unmarked trail to Crystal Lake begins at the hydro electric plant next to the Blind Slough Salmon Hatchery.
My dog Barley is five and a half years old. Maybe it’s just me, but it seems like he’s a bit slower on runs than he was when he was three and a half. Of course, he’s not exactly an old dog – I’m hoping he’ll have another eight or more years of happy, healthy life. But I want to keep him young and healthy for as long as possible.
One of my favorite things about January is looking forward to planning my adventures with for the coming year. I always try to get outside and do something fun with my border collie Barley a few times per week. Whether we’re trail running, hiking, or just tossing a ball in a new place, we love exploring!
“We’re dog people, and we know how important it is to establish that connection with your dog.”
In this training lesson, Trek responds to positive reinforcement from Chris and learns to heel. Listen for tips from Chris about how he creates small, but attainable challenges for Trek to improve his learning process.
In week three, Trek learns how to “stay” on a place board as Chris rewards him for his good work. Chris and Trek are building off of last week’s session. Trek is becoming more familiar with a leash while learning to “stay” simultaneously.
Week two of training involves Trek being introduced to a leash for the first time. Watch to find out the method Chris uses to let Trek become familiar with the leash and why you shouldn’t sweat the small stuff when your dog doesn’t cooperate.
When you brought your puppy home for the first time, you fell in love. That little fur ball curled up in your heart and you didn’t have any say in the matter. But with great love comes great responsibility.
Join Trek and Chris for their very first training lesson as Trek is taught how to sit. Chris explains his techniques to motivate and reward Trek for doing a good job.
