Balanced Dog Training With Suburban K9

We want to help you prevent and fix Littermate Syndrome! Are you raising and training littermate puppies? Do you have littermates that are fighting? Fixing littermate syndrome and stopping your dogs from fighting is possible, it just takes a good plan and a lot of effort. This podcast is meant to educate dog owners who currently have or are considering getting littermates. We recommend you avoid getting littermates, but if you already have them we are here to help!!!Not every time you raise littermates will lead to issues, but if Littermate Syndrome does arise it can be a huge problem. Our recommendation is to always assume that two littermates will develop Littermate Syndrome and take a series of steps to prevent it. If you have littermates remember that it is 3 times more work than raising one puppy! You need to do all of their training and socializing both together and separate. Generally littermate syndrome leads to socialization issues but it can also lead to fighting between the siblings. When littermate syndrome turns into fights between the dogs we call it Sibling Rivalry Syndrome. This usually occurs because one dog has become too pushy/dominant while the other dog has become too submissive. Your job when raising littermates is to make sure they are comfortable even when separate. This means you need to work on a lot of socializing and obedience training with your puppies while they are separated to ensure that they learn how to be happy on their own. If they are stressed during this process you need to use your obedience commands as a calming tool. They goal is to use Heel and other commands as a way to "reset" your dogs' brains and calm them down. We have hundreds of littermate syndrome success stories, and they are all due to having an action plan and then working hard. Make sure to crate your littermates separately, preferably in separate rooms. This helps them handle being alone and can prevent or help fix separation anxiety. If you have never done this you will need to start slowly to make sure the dogs are able to handle the process. Reach out with questions!

Boundary training is an amazing skill that can change your dog's life.  It allows your dog more freedom and the ability to be off leash more often.We discuss how to do boundary training in a variety of situations from the yard, to the front door to the kitchen.  We spend most of the time discussing how to do boundary training in the yard because it is the most challenging and the most important.  Imagine not having a fence and being able to allow your dog to roam free!  A lot of our clients do boundary training in the front yard even when they have a fence in the backyard.  Enjoy the episode and drop a comment with questions. 

How to Prevent Leash Reactivity: 4 Key Insights for Dog OwnersLeash reactivity can be a frustrating challenge for many dog owners. Have you ever found yourself struggling to control your dog when they see another dog or person? In this episode we explore how leash pulling and improper socialization can lead to reactivity, and share practical steps you can take to prevent these issues. Understanding Leash ReactivityLeash reactivity often stems from a dog’s frustration when they can’t reach something that excites or scares them. This can manifest in pulling, barking, or lunging. Understanding the root causes is crucial for effective training.The Role of SocializationMany new dog owners don’t realize that insufficient exposure to different environments, people, and animals can lead to anxiety and reactivity. Dogs need to learn what’s normal and safe, just like children learn about the world around them.Over Socialization: On the flip side, overly indulging puppies by allowing them to meet every person they see can create an expectation that all encounters will be positive, which is not always the case as they grow older. This can lead to frustration when they are no longer the center of attention.By ensuring your dog is appropriately socialized during their early months, you can help them become more relaxed and confident in various situations.Training Techniques to Prevent ReactivityLeash Training: Teaching your dog to walk calmly on a leash is fundamental. Practice commands like "heel" or "leave it" to help control their impulses.Gradual Introduction: Introduce your dog to new experiences gradually. Start with low-stress environments before moving on to busier places. For example, take them to a park during quieter hours.Desensitization: Help your dog get used to the sights and sounds of everyday life. This might include walking near busy streets or meeting other dogs. Allow them to observe without the pressure of direct interaction.Clear Commands: Consistency in commands and expectations is key. If you allow your dog to pull on the leash sometimes and not others, they become confused. Stick to the rules you set.Daily Training: Integrate brief training sessions into your daily routine. This can be as simple as practicing commands during walks or rewarding calm behavior when encountering other dogs. Recognizing TriggersIdentify Specific Triggers: Pay attention to what specifically causes your dog to react. This could be other dogs, specific people, or even loud noises. Understanding these triggers will help you manage and train effectively.Plan Your Walks: Choose routes that minimize encounters with triggers, especially during the early stages of training. Gradually introduce them to their triggers in a controlled manner as they improve.Key Takeaways- Proper socialization and consistent training are crucial in preventing leash reactivity.- Avoid both improper and over socialization to help your dog learn what normal interactions look like.- Use positive reinforcement and controlled exposure to encourage calm behavior.- Maintain consistency in your training commands and routines to prevent confusion.By implementing these strategies, you’ll be on your way to having a well-behaved dog that enjoys walks without the stress of leash reactivity.

In this episode, the guys dive into various dog-related topics, sharing their hot takes on various things people do with their dogs, training methods, misconceptions about dog breeds and more. They discuss the absurdity of certain dog behaviors, the importance of responsible pet ownership, and the challenges of dog training in a world filled with misinformation. The conversation is filled with humor, frustration, and a few silver linings as they navigate through the complexities of dog ownership and training.Some of our topics 🤣Dogs in strollers are often not getting enough exercise.Picking up after your dog is a responsibility of ownership.Off-leash training is essential for a well-behaved dog.Fake service dogs undermine the legitimacy of real service animals.Force-free training has its limitations and should not be the only method used.Social media can promote harmful practices in dog training.Pit bulls are often misunderstood and misrepresented in society.Dog parks can be a source of disease and behavioral issues.Crating dogs is a safe practice when done correctly.Shaving dogs can lead to health issues and discomfort.Hot Takes on Dog OwnershipThe Truth About Dog Training"When I see dogs in a stroller.""Why are you shaving labs and Goldens?"

We are huge believers in the power of handling exercises. Almost every time a dog bites a family member could be prevented if the owners do these handling exercises with their dog. Not 50%. Not 75%. 99% of bites within the household could be prevented simply by doing these easy and fun exercises from a young age. There is no excuse not to do them!

Muzzle training and conditioning doesn’t have to be scary or stressful.Here is a link to the video we discussed today: https://youtu.be/FSnpjh2k7O4Why Proper Muzzle Acclimation Is So Important: When muzzle training is done poorly, dogs often learn to fear the muzzle. That fear doesn’t come from the muzzle itself, it comes from how it’s introduced.Common problems happen when:The muzzle is forced on the dog, the dog is restrained or cornered, the muzzle only appears before scary events, stress signals are ignored, or the process moves too fast. That’s how dogs learn that the muzzle predicts bad things.In contrast, proper muzzle acclimation teaches the dog that the muzzle predicts food and calm interactions, they have choice and control, nothing bad happens when the muzzle appears and staying relaxed pays off. That’s exactly what you’ll see in this video.The goal is not to rush to get the muzzle buckled. The real goal is to get a dog who understands what’s happening, who isn’t stressed or shut down, and who willingly participates. If a dog can calmly put their nose into a muzzle on their own, everything else becomes easier.Treats are a huge part of successful muzzle acclimation — and no, they’re not “bribes.” Food helps change emotional responses, build positive associations, lower anxiety, reinforce calm behavior and create clarity.Muzzle appears → food appearsThis simple step is where most of the groundwork happens.Voluntary Nose-In Muzzle Training is something you should be thinking about. Eventually, the dog begins placing their nose inside the muzzle — on their own. This is a critical moment in muzzle training.Build Duration Slowly Duration is where a lot of people mess up muzzle training. They get one success and immediately jump ahead. Instead, we build duration gradually while watching the dog’s body language closely.If stress shows up, we slow down or take a step back. There’s no deadline or rush.Choosing the Right Muzzle for TrainingNot all muzzles are created equal. For proper muzzle acclimation, the muzzle should allow full panting, allow drinking water, allow taking treats, fit securely without rubbing and not restrict breathingBasket muzzles are typically the best option for training because they allow normal mouth movement and airflow.Muzzles are one of the most misunderstood tools in dog training. A lot of people assume that if a dog wears a muzzle it means the dog is bad or incredibly aggressive. In reality, a muzzle is simply a safety tool, and when it’s introduced correctly, all dogs can learn to wear one comfortably and calmly.Thanks for listening and feel free to reach out with questions!

This episode is for all the trainers that listen to our show. Burn out in dog training is a real concern and is something all trainers should be aware of.We have roughly 50 people on the Suburban K9 team and burn out is something we talk about with all of our team members. It is crucial that you take care of your self so that you are in the right head space to help others.Happy holidays!

In this episode Matt answered some dog training questions that listeners had submitted recently. Let us know in the comments if this type of episode is helpful!

Matt's take in this episode is that stay and place are often used so much that it becomes abusive.  He and Nelson dive into both commands and discuss appropriate and inappropriate uses for them. If you are interested in ensuring that your dogs and your clients dogs have a great life this episode is a can't miss.

We spent some time talking through how to handle Halloween with your dog. We discussed costumes, decorations and all the various ways your dog may become scared or aggressive. Please share this episode with anyone you think may need it!

We had a lot of comments on our YouTube channel about a streamer named Hasan using an e collar on his dog.  People are alleging that he is abusing his dog with an e collar after incident during one of his live streams.We watched the videos (linked below) and then filmed this episode discussing what we saw.  It led to a great conversation about e collar usage and treatment of dogs in general.  Let us know what you think:!https://youtu.be/dqexB1-3TOA?si=F6F0TMu2XWlurnp9https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0IoJ9RXnk8

We dive into a conversation about every type of leash we can think of. We give the pros and cons of each type and explain when we use each type of leash.Let us know if you have any questions!

We had a fun conversation discussing the differences between reactive dogs, aggressive dogs and dangerous dogs. This may sound like semantics, but the distinction matters.

We had Evan Doggett on the podcast for a wide ranging dog training conversation! We talked about treadmill training dogs, fixing behavioral problems, how diet can affect your dog's behavior and much more. Make sure to follow Evan on social media and YouTube. Links below!Evan's website: doggettstyle.com Evan's YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@doggettstyledogtraining

Although we are fans of e collar training, there are a lot of bad e collar trainers out there. Some people point to bad trainers and say "BAN THE TOOL", but this won't work. Bad trainers will always be bad trainers unless they learn. Banning a tool will just drive the tool underground or cause them to use a different tool with the same bad methods. When using a e collar it is crucial to (1) have a plan, (2) take your time when introducing the collar and (3) spend more time on the teaching phase than you think you need to and (4) make sure you spend a ton of time on teaching the dog another alternative to undesirable behavior.

The guys each ran through a couple of training scenarios/stories from their week. From witnessing a dog attack to socializing a Frenchie, they each had an interesting week!

Teaching your dog proper boundaries is important from a safety standpoint and it also makes life a lot more fun!This ranges from teaching them not to leave the boundaries of your yard to things such as stairs, crates, the front door and other thresholds. Enjoy the episode and let us know if you have questions!

Heel is a foundational command and when done right teaches your dog much more than to simply stop pulling. This is a command that can truly change your dog. It teaches them to focus, establishes the fact that they need to listen to you when you ask something and is a great calming technique that you can use anytime.

This episode is fully focused on our 3 step process for correcting unwanted behavior and calming a dog down. As you listen to the episode you will notice that this process is extremely simple and can be applied to a huge variety of situations. Drop a comment with any questions!

The hosts spent some time talking about current news stories in the dog world. From dog robots to Korean dog meat farms, they covered a large variety of stories. Tune in and enjoy!

In this episode, the hosts discuss how to manage dogs that are scared of fireworks, especially with the 4th of July approaching. They cover various strategies including medication, training techniques, and desensitization methods. The hosts emphasize the need for responsible pet ownership and proactive training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both dogs and their owners during the holiday. TakeawaysMedication like Benadryl can help manage fireworks anxiety in dogs.It's important to train your dog in basic commands before the fireworks start.Desensitization to loud noises can reduce fear of fireworks.Staying home with your dog during fireworks is crucial for their comfort.Exercise your dog leading up to the 4th of July to help them relax.Using music to mask the sound of fireworks can be beneficial.Fireworks anxiety can be managed with proper training and preparation.Don't let your dog hide during fireworks; it can worsen their anxiety.Consider boarding your dog if you have a party during fireworks.

In this episode, the hosts discuss the intricacies of e-collar training for dogs, emphasizing the importance of proper introduction and mechanics. They explore the differences between positive punishment and negative reinforcement, and how to effectively use e-collars for commands and behavioral corrections. The conversation also highlights common mistakes trainers make and the significance of client education in ensuring successful training outcomes. We also added a new game where we randomly call one of our trainers live on the show and put them on the spot!

Today on the Balanced Dog Training Show, we’re joined by the incredible Dr. Melanie Uhde for an eye-opening conversation on how hormones and neurotransmitters influence dog behavior—and how that knowledge can transform your training approach.Dr. Uhde is a renowned expert in canine neurobiology and behavior, and she's leading the charge in bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and everyday dog training. In this episode, we dive deep into the major neurotransmitters and hormones—like dopamine, serotonin, cortisol, and adrenaline—and how each one affects a dog’s emotional state, reactivity, focus, and ability to learn.We break down how these chemical messengers impact common behavioral issues such as anxiety, aggression, overexcitement, and fear. More importantly, we explore how understanding what’s happening inside a dog’s brain allows trainers and owners to tailor their approach, creating calmer, more confident dogs and more effective training sessions.Whether you're a professional dog trainer, a passionate dog owner, or just someone curious about the science behind behavior, this episode offers a fascinating look at the biological forces shaping your dog’s actions—and how you can use that knowledge to your advantage.Guest: Dr. Melanie Uhde📘 Facebook: Dr. Melanie Uhde📷 Instagram: @caninedecoded▶️ YouTube: www.YouTube.com/@dr.melanieuhde

In this episode, the hosts discuss the concept of guard dogs, focusing on how to raise a family-friendly dog that can also exhibit guarding behaviors. They explore the balance between allowing natural guarding instincts and ensuring the dog remains social and manageable. The conversation delves into the importance of breed selection, personality traits, and the role of training in shaping a dog's behavior. The hosts emphasize that a dog's deterrent effect often relies on its appearance and behavior rather than formal training. They discuss how daily interactions shape a dog's behavior, the significance of socialization, and the management of barking. The conversation emphasizes the need for consistency in training and the understanding that dogs learn from their environment and the responses of their owners.

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the nuances of energy in dog training, emphasizing its critical role in establishing effective communication and training methods. They explore the differences between using treats and praise, the importance of reading a dog's energy, and how to tailor training approaches to individual dogs' needs. The discussion also touches on the significance of energy levels in creating a strong bond between trainers and dogs, and how understanding these dynamics can lead to more successful training outcomes.

In this episode of Balanced Training with Suburban K9, the hosts engage in a discussion about various dog training topics, including resource guarding, managing skittish behavior, the rules around dogs on furniture, and the importance of socialization. They emphasize the need for dog owners to understand their pets' body language and to intervene when necessary to ensure safe interactions. The conversation also covers practical training tips for puppies, including recall and attention commands, and the significance of establishing clear rules for dog behavior in the home.

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the complexities of separation anxiety in dogs, exploring its symptoms, causes, and effective training techniques. They emphasize the importance of creating a calm environment, using obedience commands, and establishing a positive relationship with the crate. The discussion also highlights the role of daily exercise in managing anxiety and the necessity of correcting unwanted behaviors without punishing the dog's anxiety. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights for dog owners and trainers dealing with separation anxiety. The conversation also touches on the role of medication in severe cases of separation anxiety and the importance of setting realistic goals for dog owners. Additionally, they identify specific dog breeds that are more prone to separation anxiety and offer preventative measures for new dog owners to help mitigate these issues.

In this episode of Balanced Training with Suburban K9, the hosts discuss the significance of obedience in dog training, exploring various perspectives on its importance and application. They delve into how obedience commands can serve as tools for managing behavior, building relationships, and addressing issues like food aggression and resource guarding. The conversation emphasizes the need for tailored approaches based on individual dog temperaments and the role of trainers in guiding clients through effective training methods. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to dog training, including the importance of obedience commands in addressing issues like resource guarding, the changing role of dogs in modern society, and the significance of shared language between trainers and clients. TakeawaysObedience only matters if you do it in the right manner.A well-trained dog is one that I don't have to talk to.Obedience commands are important for building a relationship.You can raise a dog with just the come command.Teaching commands isn't going to fix my problem.Obedience should be creating the behavior you want.Choose when you want to work.Obedience commands give you a common language with the dog.You can do a lot with energy and tone. Obedience commands are crucial for addressing resource guarding.Many people treat their dogs as surrogate children, leading to behavioral issues.Training should focus on building a shared language between the trainer and the dog owner.Resource guarding can be managed effectively with proper obedience training.The role of dogs in society has changed, with many being overly pampered.It's important to have control over your dog in various situations, including public spaces.Training should not just focus on tricks but on enforceable commands.Dogs need structure and boundaries to thrive in modern households.Understanding the difference between obedience commands and tricks is essential for effective training.

In this episode, the hosts discuss various methods for introducing dogs to one another, focusing on different scenarios such as introducing puppies to each other, friendly older dogs, standoffish older dogs, and aggressive dogs. They emphasize the importance of having a plan, understanding dog behavior, and taking the time necessary for successful introductions. The conversation is filled with humor and personal anecdotes, making it both informative and entertaining for dog owners and trainers alike. This conversation delves into the complexities of introducing dogs to one another, focusing on various scenarios including puppies to older dogs, older dogs to standoffish dogs, and aggressive dog introductions. The speakers emphasize the importance of understanding dog behavior, body language, and the need for structured introductions to ensure safety and success. They discuss strategies for managing introductions, the significance of trust and resources, and the necessity of muzzle training for aggressive dogs. The conversation concludes with a reminder to take time and be observant during the introduction process.

In this deep-dive episode, Matt Covey, Nelson Medrano, and Matt Wlos tackle one of the most controversial topics in dog training: dominance. Does it actually exist, or is it an outdated myth? What do the latest studies on wolves say, and how do they translate to our understanding of dogs?First, we all learn that Nelson actually does drink water, and then the trio dives into the heart of the debate, unpacking the historical research on dominance in wolf packs—studies that have shaped (and reshaped) how we think about dog behavior. They explore the work of early researchers like Konrad Lorenz and David Mech, discussing how shifting perspectives on wolf hierarchy have influenced the way trainers approach dog training today.A key question emerges: Are force-free trainers correct in saying that dominance doesn’t exist at all, or has the term simply been overused and misunderstood? Matt, Nelson, and Matt break it down, challenging the notion that hierarchy is absent in social structures—whether in wolves, humans, or even Pokémon card collectors (yes, that analogy happens).They also explore the extreme interpretations of dominance theory that have given the term a bad reputation, from outdated dominance-based training methods to bizarre practices like spitting in a dog’s food to "assert leadership." The trainers emphasize that while dominance is real, it doesn’t mean harsh corrections or outdated "alpha" methods are necessary. Instead, they advocate for balanced training—a combination of positive reinforcement and well-timed corrections—to create clear, effective communication with dogs.The episode also raises an important distinction: If submission exists in dogs, then by definition, so must dominance. But does using the word "dominance" create unnecessary division in the training world? Could reframing the conversation around control, structure, and leadership help bridge the gap between force-free and balanced trainers?Throughout the discussion, the team highlights common myths, the importance of context in training, and why the ultimate goal is a well-adjusted, confident dog—not a submissive one. They even dive into the ethics of different training approaches, questioning whether some force-free methods (like withholding food to increase motivation) are truly less aversive than a mild correction.As always, the episode wraps up with an open invitation for force-free trainers to weigh in. If you disagree, they want to hear from you! Drop a comment and join the conversation.Topics covered in this episode:✔️ What dominance actually means in dog behavior✔️ The history of wolf research and how it affects modern training✔️ The "alpha wolf" myth—what did David Mech really say?✔️ The difference between dominance-based training and balanced training✔️ Myths about dominance—like why your dog sitting on the couch isn’t a power play✔️ The psychology of submission and control in social animals✔️ Why the debate between force-free and balanced trainers might be more about marketing than methodology✔️ How misunderstanding dominance leads to flawed training philosophiesFinal Takeaway:Whether you’re a professional trainer or just a dog owner looking to understand your pup better, this episode will challenge your thinking and give you a more nuanced perspective on dominance, leadership, and effective training methods.Tune in now and let us know—where do you stand on the dominance debate?

What should you do if a dog charges at you? How can you defend yourself from an aggressive dog without making the situation worse? In this episode, expert dog trainers Matt Covey, Nelson Medrano, and Matt Wlos take a deep dive into dog attack survival tactics, breaking down real-life scenarios and debunking some of the worst self-defense advice floating around online.Using personal experiences, viral attack videos, and proven techniques, they cover everything you need to know about dog attack prevention and defense, including:✅ How to prevent a dog attack before it happens – Understanding dog body language, recognizing warning signs, and avoiding high-risk situations.✅ The best techniques for deterring an aggressive dog – When to use intimidation, eye contact, and body posture to stop an attack before it starts.✅ What to do if a dog bites you – Why staying on your feet is critical, how to defend yourself without escalating the attack, and when to fight back.✅ How to use everyday objects for protection – Backpacks, bikes, garbage can lids, leashes, and other improvised shields to keep a dog from latching onto you.✅ Pepper spray, bear spray, and break sticks – Which self-defense tools actually work and when to use them.✅ Why bad advice could get you killed – A breakdown of viral videos, including a police training clip that gives dangerous recommendations for dog attacks.✅ What to do if a dog chases you on a bike – Why outrunning the dog isn’t always the best move and how to use your bike as a barrier.✅ When to call authorities after a dog attack – The legal and ethical considerations, plus what happens if a dangerous dog is reported.Dog attacks happen more often than most people realize, and knowing how to handle them could save your life or someone else’s. Whether you’re a dog owner, a trainer, or just someone who wants to be prepared, this episode is packed with actionable advice from professionals who have faced these situations firsthand.📢 Have you ever encountered an aggressive dog? What would you do differently after hearing this discussion? Drop a comment below and let us know!#DogAttack #DogSelfDefense #SurvivingADogAttack #DogTrainingTips #PersonalSafety #BalancedDogTraining #PepperSprayForDogs #HowToStopADogAttack

In this episode, Matt Covey and Matt Wlos discuss New Jersey's Senate Bill 3814, which proposes a licensing board for dog trainers. They explore the implications of the bill, including the potential criminalization of certain training methods, the authority of the proposed board, and the economic impact on the dog training industry. The conversation highlights public response to the bill, the legal nuances involved, and the broader implications for dog training across the country.The hosts emphasize the importance of community engagement in legislative processes and the need for ongoing vigilance regarding dog training regulations.TakeawaysSenate Bill 3814 aims to regulate dog trainers in New Jersey.The bill could criminalize balanced training methods.Public opposition played a significant role in halting the bill.The proposed board would have extensive authority over dog training practices.Definitions in the bill could lead to ambiguous interpretations.Aversive training methods are broadly defined, raising concerns.The bill could increase dog training costs significantly.There are existing animal cruelty laws that address harmful training practices.The bill's implications could extend beyond New Jersey to other states.Community engagement is crucial in influencing legislative outcomes.

In this episode we dive into the topic of how many dogs a person should have. How many dogs is the ideal number? How do you know how many dogs is too many? Will getting another dog make life easier or harder with your current dog? Let us know your opinion in the comments!

We get a lot of questions revolving around dogs and wheels. A lot of dogs like to chase bikes, skateboards etc and we see it all! In this episode we answer a number of questions from our YouTube channel on this topic. Learn how our trainers work to solve wheel related issues with their clients' dogs.

On today's episode we had Cody Will from Rattlesnake Ready, LLC.  Cody is a great guy with a crazy job!  Tune in to learn how he works with dogs and live rattlesnakes in order to keep dogs safe.  Cody is a well known expert in this field and in our opinion is the top trainer in the country when it comes to Rattlesnake avoidance training. We recommend him to all of our clients who live in snake country and we don’t make recommendations lightly.  As we discussed in the show, Cody has people come in from all over the country to work with him in order to keep their pup safe.   If you are looking for training check out Cody's site here: www.rattlesnakeready.com If you want to learn more about his zoo operations you check out this site: www.rattlesnakeranchaz.com

Dr. Hayley Gammons came on the show to discuss how vaccines can affect a dog's socialization schedule, how spaying and neutering at different ages can affect a dog's health and a variety of other topics. Dr. Gammons is a veterinarian in Franklin, TN and sees clients from all over the Nashville area. Let us know what you think of the episode!

We had some of the folks from Dogtra on the show and it was a blast! We spent some time talking about Dogtra's past, present and future as well as the industry as a whole. We also spent some time talking about the new 280x and the 1900x. Both of these collars are awesome and are a huge improvement over the older models. E Collars have changed a lot over the years and they will continue to change in the future. Tune in for some insight on what the future will look like and also some tips on how to get the most out of your collar. As mentioned in the podcast, we will be running a contest and giving away a 280x in the near future. Drop a comment on the podcast if you would like to be entered!

In this episode we respond to a lot of comments from YouTube and other social media sites. If you have a question you would like us to cover please let us know!

We let chat GPT interview us and this is the results! It was a little weird, but not as weird as we expected. Check out the episode to learn something about us and also get some dog training knowledge.

All about Frenchies!  How did the French Bulldog become the most popular dog breed in the country?  They are awesome dogs, but they come with some issues and challenges.  From breathing problems, to allergies to back issues....there is a lot to know before you get one.   Also, while many of them are little cuddle bugs, some are tough drivey dogs that want to work.  Make sure you know all about the breed before you commit.   For the right person a French Bulldog could be the best dog in the world.  For the wrong person they could be a nightmare of medical bills and behavioral challenges. Tune in and hear Matt and Nelson's opinions on the breed.

In this episode we dive into the best small dog breeds. To make it more fun we polled our nation wide team of trainers and highlighted their recommended breeds in the episode. Please share this with anyone considering getting a small dog so that they can choose the right breed for them.

The title says it all! This is another episode where we take questions from social media and answer them on the show. Submit your own question here or on YouTube and we will try and cover it on a future episode!

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of dog body language. Dogs are constantly communicating with us through their movements, posture, facial expressions, and even their tail wags! Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or new to the canine world, learning how to read these signals can enhance your bond and help you better understand your pup. We'll explore common signs of happiness, stress, fear, and excitement, as well as some of the more subtle cues that dogs use to express themselves. By the end of the episode, you’ll have a clearer insight into what your dog is really thinking. Keep in mind that dog body language can be very confusing. All the things dogs do when fighting are also done while they are playing. You generally can not rely on just one part of your dog's body language to determine if they are being friendly or aggressive. You need to evaluate their mouth, their eyes, their back, their tail and also look at their overall body language. Is it "tight" or "loose"? Tight body language is often an issue and loose body language is never an issue. Drop a comment and let us know what you think of the episode!

In this episode we talk about how to adopt an adult dog. We spend some time discussing how to pick the right dog and then spend most of the episode on how to introduce that dog to your home. Is the "decompression period" real? Should you start training your new dog right away or allow them free rein for a while they acclimate? Matt and Nelson give their opinions on these topics and more. We discussed the following video during this episode: Picking the right puppy:https://youtu.be/XzGCu6t6-_w?si=bGpfK5La1WuPiixz

The guys dive into intra household dog aggression and discuss how to help dogs that live together and fight with each other. Fixing this can be tough, but it is definitely possible. Here are a few of the videos we mentioned in the episode. Place command Video ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xk4YI6AOPAw&t=37s⁠

We covered a lot of wacky topics in this episode. Tune in and let us know what you think!

Here is everything you need to know to potty training your puppy quickly. We also included a link to a funny video we discussed in the episode. It is definitely worth watching! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MI6Jmgb04lU

We get a lot of questions on the difference between a service dog, a therapy dog and an emotional support dog. These are three very different categories and the differences matter. Different rules and laws both protect and restrict dogs and their handlers and it is crucial to know the difference if you will be taking your dog in public as a therapy dog, ESA or service dog.

This is an often overlooked topic that we help clients with all the time. Many people get their dog trained well enough to listen to them, but are still worried about how that dog will react to a dog sitter or a dog walker. We cover how to handle this situation with dogs that are simply wild, dogs that are aggressive and dogs that are fearful. Let us know if you have any questions after giving it a listen!

Here is another installment to our Q&A episode series. We read some of the most recent comments from our various social media platforms and then give detailed answers. If you have any questions you would like answered feel free to ask away!