We've had some complaints about spammers or bots DMing people. As a result I've turned the chat feature off for users under level 4 (you gain levels by posting, commenting etc.). If you have received any such messages please let me know and I'll report and block them. I believe you can also report said users fyi. This is meant to be a helpful community for dog owners and dog trainers alike to learn, share struggles and wins and get better together. I'll do my best to keep out the riff raff, it's unfortunately a reality of platforms like this however. We will also be moving to a paid community soon which will further keep out obnoxious users like that. On a lighter note: I was not able to get a new video up last week in the "how to train your dog" series due to being on a short vacation. I will get the next one up ASAP. That is all, let's all get back to training.

We are nearing the end with our March group!

This is where most people start doing things wrong—even if Step 1 (engagement) went well. Now that your dog is choosing to stay with you and focus, the next step is teaching them how to follow food correctly so we can start shaping real behaviors. This is what allows us to: - Guide the dog into positions (sit, down, heel, place) - Build clarity in communication - Prevent confusion and frustration later on If your dog doesn’t understand how to follow food properly, everything we build on top of this gets sloppy. 🎯 What We’re Working On This Week 1. Straight Line LuringYour dog should be able to follow your hand in clean, controlled movements. 2. Timing the “Yes” MarkerThe reward only happens when the dog is doing the right thing—nose on the hand. 3. Proper Food HandlingHow you hold the food matters more than you think. This is what gives you control instead of the dog just grabbing at it. 4. Building EnthusiasmIf your dog isn’t super engaged, you need to bring more energy and contrast (freeze vs movement) to make the game more exciting. ⚠️ Common Mistakes - Moving too fast and losing the dog - Saying “yes” when the dog isn’t actually in position - Letting the dog fall behind your hand - Treating food like a bribe instead of a communication tool 🧠 Big Takeaway We’re not just “giving treats.” We’re teaching the dog:👉 “If you stay connected to my hand, that’s what makes the reward happen.” That understanding is what allows us to start building real obedience next. 🎥 Your Homework - Practice short sessions (2–5 minutes at a time) - Focus on clean reps, not speed - Mix in engagement work if your dog starts to check out If you’re unsure if you’re doing it right, post a video in the group and I’ll take a look.

Welcome to this March group of dogs and their owners! Hazel, the pit lab mix that she is reactive towards other dogs. Rip, the Rottweiler who you can’t put him into a crate safely. Winnie, the German Shepard is here for lack manners. We also have another dog who will be coming to us tomorrow. Louie, the Golden doodle is coming for obnoxious barking. Stay tuned to follow along with their progress, happy training guys! Stetson the black lab is going home tomorrow and loves to play fetch and tug!