Project Paws Dog Training

We hear it all the time, rewarding puppies for using the bathroom outside. But did you know you could be reinforcing your puppy for using the bathroom period? That doesn’t mean they’ll p*e inside expecting a treat, but they may not fully empty their bladders outside. That would mean they would p*e a little, and look to you for a reward. Now you think your puppy has used the bathroom so you bring them inside. Eventually they will realize they still need to go, and they will go. We recommend setting puppies up for success, every time they need to go they’re outside. Also limit their space, if they can’t run off into the spare bedroom to p*e, they’re less likely to use the bathroom where they’re hanging out.

Teddy and Milo enjoying the play portion of our puppy class last Sunday!

Who doesn’t want to take their best friend out with them when they can? Don’t let chaotic behavior be the reason they have to stay at home. Here are some tips:

1. Focus: If they’re not paying attention to us, they’re paying attention to everything else. Having a good check in is key. Start on leash in your backyard where there are some distractions, but nothing crazy. Stand there and wait, don’t call your dogs name or ask them to look at you. Keep the leash short enough that they can’t get distracted by sniffing. After a moment, they should turn to you. They don’t have to look at your face, it can be your feet or your general direction at first. The second they do, mark with “yes!” and reward! After the first one, it gets much easier to repeat. By not telling them what to do, we’ve taught them that the choice they just made is a good one.
2. Neutrality: We want to raise brave and confident dogs, but also dogs that don’t pull to say hi to every person or dog they see. Using positive reinforcement to keep their focus on you around those stimuli, as well as not allowing them to say hi to every person and dog is a great foundation for this. When it is time to say hi, use a cue like “break” or “go say hi”!

Go to the link in our bio if you want to learn even more!

Our client Lulu would like everyone to know the importance of taking a break from training to roll in the grass 🥰🌿

Emma showing off her heel yesterday during our first trip to Lowe’s!

When I first met Buck, I couldn’t get within ten feet of him. By the end of our time together, not only were we best friends but he’s now able to walk past his triggers without reacting with mom’s guidance. Good job, Buck!

We get a lot of clients asking us how to keep their dog calm while they’re making dinner. Place is a great tool for that! This is just a short time-lapse of Aspen staying in her place while we were all over the place making dinner.