Dog Obedience Basics: Release Me!
Always use a release after you have given your dog a command. A release word is the equivalent of giving your dog permission to be ‘at ease’. By using a release, you are teaching your dog that she should stay in a position, such as sit or drop, until she is released or given another command. If you use a release word correctly, you will never have to teach your dog ‘stay’ because your dog will stay in any position until you release her. The release word can be anything, as long a ... More
A Tip to Stop Your Dog’s Restless Nights
I would often hear my boy Frodo rustle around at night as a puppy. I thought his nocturnal roaming was just his nature; that he loved to ‘guard the perimeter’ or scare off any nocturnal bugs that caught his attention. As Frodo got older his restlessness continued -he even started to bark late at night. Frodo was normally such a quiet soul and when his barking got worse I began to wonder what is this little guy’s problem? Now that I’m a dog trainer and understand dogs bet ... More
Is Your Dog Trying to be Your Boss?
In one of my training guides I say that it’s not always a good idea to allow your dog on the bed or couch. I say this because some dogs can get a little too comfy and see the bed or couch as their territory; you may have seen (or even owned) a dog that growls or snaps when you or another tries to sit on the couch with the dog. In this situation the dog’s reaction is a sign that it is ‘guarding’ an important resource, that is, the comfy bed or couch! If your dog is quite o ... More
Don’t Pat Your Dog!
The other day at the puppy class I run, I came across an angry little boy named Carter. Despite being only 12 weeks old, this little fellow snapped and growled at the other pups. The class had not even started, yet tension amongst the owners was high. This was understandable – they were nervous because this little pup was menacing their own beloved pups. I must admit, I was taken aback. It was the first time I’d ever come across this behaviour in such a young dog. What could I do to ... More
Should I allow my dog on the couch or bed?
I admit that I am an advocate of strong leadership when it comes to an owner’s relationship with their dog, but I have softened on one of my rules… In the past I have said: “When sitting or sleeping you must be on a higher level than your dog – your dog should not be allowed on your bed or couch.” My reason for this advice was that our relationship with dogs is based on physical cues. Dogs respond well to strong, consistent, literal body language. As such, in the cani ... More
My Dog Won’t Come When Called
It’s so frustrating when your dog won’t come when called. Even when you have taught your dog to come on command in the backyard, the presence of other dogs or food in the park can be too much of a temptation. Many owners say that, although their dog is relatively well-behaved and obedient, the dogs seem to ‘lose it’ in open space and run off easily. I, too, have experienced this problem with one of my dogs. Through careful preparation and a planned training program, I ca ... More
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"We've had dog trainers before but never got results until Mia came along."
Mia is fantastic! Our beloved dog, Sophie, is now 4 years old. We've had dog trainers before but never got results until Mia came along. She has shown us ways to stop the barking, the barking was driving us mad! Now we know the commands and our dog knows to stop! Thanks Mia from us all! Mark, Rachel Staggs & Sophie
"Since Mia's advice, Iggy is much more fun and loving - he's not a burden like before."
We got Iggy from the pound and whenever we took him for a walk, he would go beserk and yank on the lead. Mia taught me how to take control of the lead and maintain his attention. I am now actually able to walk with Iggy happily alongside and looking to me. Dianne Simboro & Iggy
"Mia, you blew me away with your knowledge and understanding of dogs."
Hi Mia, I just want to thank you for your training advice for my border collie, Indie. You blew me away with your knowledge and understanding of dogs. Both Indie and I learned so much from you and now my husband and I are really looking forward to training Indie again! We'll be practicing what you taught us! The Tosolini Family & Indie
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