Learn what your dog is trying to tell you
Make your training easier and help your dog by learning to read canine body language.
1. Fun, 5-minute overview video:
2. 3 1/2 minute video on recognizing relaxed vs uncomfortable dogs:
3. This website has free downloadable infographics that illustrate the meaning of facial expressions and other signs of stress:
4. This video demonstrates safe play and problematic interactions
5. If you learn by reading, here are two excellent articles on body language with suggestions on how to respond.
6. This little book is as fun as it is educational.
Equipment suggestions
For effectiveness and safety
We recommend a harness for walking, and a coupler to link the harness to the collar as a backup in case your dog wriggles out of the harness (it can happen so fast you don't even see it happen).
The most ergonomically correct harnesses have a strap that passes between the front legs and nothing crossing the chest.
If you have a little puppy who is growing, it's okay to get something cheap because they'll soon outgrow it.
This diagram, from an article by a myotherapist, shows optimum fit. Click on the image to see the full article
The Balance Harness is the most adjustable. It comes in a version that goes on over the head, and a version that buckles at the neck. It is made by Blue-9 but available through many online retailers.
If you search Amazon for "harness to collar safety clip," you can find a variety of safety connectors to help if your dog wriggles out of their harness (especially a problem with puppies and skinny adolescents). If you're handy, you can make one from a snap clip and a length of nylon cord. The photo shows the safety cord looped onto the base of the leash's snap clip. You snap the leash to the harness and the safety cord to the collar; then, if your dog wriggles out of the harness (it happens before you know it), your dog is still attached to the leash via the collar.
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I advise a non-retractable leash that is comfortable for your hands. 6-10 feet is a good length. It's easier for a dog to refrain from pulling if they have a bit more freedom of movement. I walk my Aussies on 8-foot leashes. I started my under-socialized Aussie on a 15-foot leash until she'd adjusted to suburban life.
You may want a longer line for sniffy walks and for practicing "come" outdoors.
Biothane is excellent for many reasons, but try to get a textured variety. Smooth biothane is super-slippery when wet.
A treat pouch is advisable for training out and about. You can buy one designed for training that clips to your belt or comes with a waist strap, or you can use a fanny pack or carpenter's apron.
You are encouraged to use a clicker if you wish, but it's not required.
Kids and dogs safe together
Did you know that 77% of dog bites come from a family or friend's dog?*
*source: CDC
This link has posters (scroll down) to help teach your kids how to be safe around dogs
Expecting a baby?
Dog growling at the toddler?
You need a specialist. The experts in these links have years of experience helping dogs accept babies.
"I Speak Doggie" - dog safety teaching for young children
Young role models demonstrate safe behaviors around dogs, accompanied by a catchy song.
Getting started with interactive food toys for meals that nourish your dog's mind as well as their body.
This link explains the whys and how-tos of serving most of your dog's meals in a way that provides a fun, achievable challenge:
Coaching wherever you are
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We've helped clients all over the country
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Ideal for cats and dogs who hide when visitors come
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More flexibility in scheduling
Online coaching yields results:
See puppy Joy learn to stop jumping on the table in this series of clips from three training sessions.
Getting Started with Zoom Conferences
Stands for your devices
Here are some ideas for supporting a phone or tablet:
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Phone holder made from an empty toilet paper roll
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You can buy an adaptor sized to hold your phone or tablet on a conventional tripod you already own, or you can get an adaptor already attached to a lightweight, flexible tripod (These products are available from Amazon and other dealers):
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You can improvise! I've seen people use shoes, shallow bowls, and hinged eyeglass cases, for example.