top of page
A happy looking Australian Shepherd runs with all four feet off the ground, so it looks like she’s flying

Information to help you prepare for your sessions

Links and resources to supplement your sessions and help you soar

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:

Thumbnails of body language infographics

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.

Title and cover photo of the article: "How to read your dogs body language with image from the article of a woman and beagle looking at one another
dog-behavior-body-language.png

6.  This little book is as fun as it is educational.

Image of the cover of the book Doggie Language.

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 

diagram of an ergonomically correct non-restrictive harness fitted onto the skeleton of a dog

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.

Diagram of dog wearing a Balance-Harness; "Fits Every Dog"

You can buy an inexpensive safety cord from Bold Lead Designs, or make one, if you're handy, from a snap clip and 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, so if your dog wriggles out of the harness (it happens before you know it's happening), your dog is still attached to the leash via the collar.  If you're in Lexington, I keep some on hand and can arrange for you to pick one up for $6 plus tax.

​

If you search Amazon for "harness to collar safety clip" you can find a number of alternatives.

photo of a Safety-cord attached to the clip of a leash

I advise any 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.

​

You may want a longer line for sniffy walks and for practicing "come" outdoors.  I use the Basic Brahma long line from Bold Lead Designs.  It's made of a smooth synthetic material that is comfortable to hold.  They also make a lighter weight version for tiny dogs.

​

Biothane is excellent for many reaasons, but make sure to get the textured variety, such as the Brahma line linked above.  Smooth biothane is super-slippery when wet.

photographs of a leash and long line

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

graphic depicting a little girl, a plus sign, a dog, an equals sign, a worried looking mom and a big question mark

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.

Family Paws logo
Pooch Parenting logo

"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:

A dog eating treats out of a snuffle mat

Coaching wherever you are

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

IMPORTANT!  Make sure your Zoom app is up to date to ensure smooth performance. 

This 8 1/2 minute video explains how to set up and use Zoom

Or you can read Zoom's help section article by clicking this link:

Stands for your devices

Here are some ideas for supporting a phone or tablet:

  • Phone holder made from an empty toilet paper roll

  • ​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):

  • You can improvise! I've seen people use shoes, shallow bowls, and hinged eyeglass cases, for example.

bottom of page