Doggy Dan Podcast Show

Walking your dog is a crucial part of raising and training them; thus, knowing the two types of dog walks can make a HUGE difference to your training experience. "Doggy Dan, is there more than just one way to do dog walks?" Yes… and my goal is to help dog owners tap into the power of switching walking styles to make the most out of dog walks. In this blog, I will talk about the two types of dog walks, why you need to know both, and how to know which type to use best. Read on to learn more. The Two Types of Dog Walks: Why You Need More Than Just One Type of Walk All walk and no play makes your dog a very irritable and restless pet. A common misconception among dog owners regarding walking dogs is that there's only one walking style to follow from start to finish. As a dog trainer who has helped dogs and their owners make walks effective while having fun, I know that sticking to one walking style can make your time outdoors an absolute struggle! Because let's be honest: our dogs are playful, and the outdoors is the perfect setting for unleashing their love for fun! Expecting them to follow one style of walking (and nothing else!) sets you and your dog up for frustration! So, what do you do to make outdoor walks more effective? Here are the two types of dog walks you should follow. The Structured Walk The first dog-walking style is the “structured walk”. Even though it is not THE ONLY walk you can do, it is undoubtedly the most important walk you should master. Most dog owners feel this type of walk is the gold standard, the only way to do things. (More on this later.) During the structured walk, your dog walks with a leash, and you absolutely are in control of the entire walk. You give commands, you decide what your dog can and can't do, and your dog is expected to follow your charge. This is the walking style that tells your dog, "I am in charge of the walk. I make the decisions. You listen to my commands." When you engage in a structured walk, you drive the entire walk, and your dog has to follow YOUR charge. The Social Walk Now, this walking style is what your dog loves! The walk becomes social when your dog can roam free and do what they want for a time. The walk doesn't have a structure, and dogs are more accessible to sniff posts, or check out areas they want to see. Compared to The Structured Walk, this more relaxed option allows your dog to really have fun and socialize! Two Types of Dog Walks: What the Structured Walk Teaches Your Dog Walking your dog the structured way sends them this important message: you're in charge of the walk, not them. The Structured Walk is crucial because it can solve typical dog walking problems such as leash pulling, aggression, overexcitement, and outdoor anxiety. Sure, you will be giving your dog the freedom to roam around and freely explore, but before you do that, your dog must understand you make the calls. And it is during the structured walks that your dog firmly gets the message that makes them say, "Ahh, I should listen to my owner's commands before I do anything during the walk." I actually talk more about The Structured Walk in my blog on the best way to walk dogs, the fifth in my Five Golden Rules series. In a nutshell, The Structured walk is critical because it teaches your dog they're not in charge. And when your dog knows they don't make the calls, they relax, they become less aggressive, and they come to your call (which is an absolute need if you're going to switch to The Social Walk). What the Social Walk Teaches Your Dog The Social Walk is about having fun! Here's the truth: we can't expect our dogs to spend the entire 30 minutes of their time outdoors just following a structured walk. They're already outdoors; they need to explore, run, sniff, and play. The social walk allows your dog to enjoy a little fun and downtime during your walk. Which Should You Do With Your Dog: How to Know Which Walk to Choose So, how do you know which walk to...

When dog owners come to me for help on how to stop leash pulling, I feel for them, especially when I hear the frustration in their voices. It's understandable why having a dog pulling the leash can be such a pain! If all you want is to enjoy a quiet, peaceful walk with your dog, the constant struggle for control can be exhausting. And most of the time, the leash pulling happens at the start of the walk, making you wonder, "Is going out for a walk even worth it?" Why do dogs do this? Why is there even a power struggle? And should you persist? In this blog, I will talk about my biggest theory of why dogs pull the leash at the start of every walk… and what you can do to change it. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: Stop Leash Pulling: Understanding Why Dogs Pull the Leash Right Before You Start Your Walk You walk to the door; your is already pulling on the leash. You step outside down the stairs, and your dog pulls and pulls as if telling you to "Hurry up!" Your time outdoors is all about having to regain control of the leash. If you've experienced the things I mentioned above, you get how challenging it is to have a dog who wants to take charge of the walk from start to finish. But why do dogs pull the leash at the start of every walk? Let me answer that using dog psychology. You see, our dogs have the DNA of a wolf — 99.98%, to be exact. Why is this significant? Because how your dog acts can be connected to how wolves act in the wild. For the wolves, everything is about survival. When they head outdoors, a walk is not just a walk; it's all about hunting for food. The most interesting thing about wolves is they don't push through with their walk until the Alpha — the pack leader — steps in to lead the way, signals "Let's go!" and goes on to make all the big decisions. Even though our dogs have become more domesticated than their ancestors, they still think like wolves. Someone has to lead, someone has to decide, someone has to be followed, someone has to call the BIG shots. FACT: If your dog doesn't feel like an Alpha is in charge, they will take over. Why? Because dogs, by nature, will always look for the leader. If that isn't filled, they immediately have to assume the role. It’s hardwired into the DNA. And leaders lead…thus, your dog is out front and there is endless leash pulling, especially at the start of every walk. Have you ever observed your dog becoming more in tune whenever the walk happens? They're gearing up to make the big decisions! So… what can you do? To Stop Leash Pulling, You Have to Know That Control Matters to Dogs Control is a powerful concept in dog psychology! Why? Because your dog knows control is essential for survival. The Alpha is their protector! The Alpha tells them how to survive the wild and find food. Your dog pulling the leash shows they have taken the role of the Alpha. Their pulling sends the message, "I'm making the big decisions now. I will tell you what to do!" So when your dog pulls the lead, they aren't deliberately disobeying you or getting on your nerves. They pull the lead because they feel they're the pack leader, and they need to make every crucial decision to make the walk successful because that's what pack leaders do. 5 Things You Can Do To Stop The Dog From Pulling the Leash The biggest solution to stop leash pulling is to actually show your dog they can pass on the hat of leadership to you. Here are some ways you can do it. #1: Be the Leader in Everything Just as the Alpha wolf leads the pack, you need to establish yourself as the leader of your pack. I want to be very clear: to stop leash pulling, you need to be the leader of EVERYTHING, and not just of walking outdoors. Some dog owners assume they only need to show their authority and leadership during the walk, and what happens before or after the walk doesn't matter. I 100% encourage you to take charge of everything, from the walk to the feeding to giving affection and...

Seeing dog owners letting their dogs run wild when the car door opens is quite a familiar scene. It’s adorable at face value… but it’s a tricky if you want to have calm walks with dogs. “Doggy Dan, do you mean I also have to keep an eye on how my dogs exit the car so I can have peace while I walk outdoors with them?” Yes, you’re right. All your problems with leash pulling, aggression, overexcitement, and yes, even protectiveness will be reduced by simply ensuring you take control WAY BEFORE your dog steps out of the car. Key Takeaways: LEARN HOW TO WALK YOUR DOG THE RIGHT WAY WITH DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #5! Table of Contents A Quick Recap of Doggy Dan Rule #5: How You Can Control the WalkThe Way Dogs Exit Cars Influences How Your Walks Will GoHow to Help Dogs Exit CalmlyWhat Happens When You Help Your Dogs Calmly Exit CarsLearn More About How You Can Take Charge of Your Dog's Walks with the Dog Calming Code A Quick Recap of Doggy Dan Rule #5: How You Can Control the Walk In my previous blog about the Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5, I discussed how you can truly gain control of the walk. In the same blog, I mentioned three pillars for a successful walking experience: #1: You control the walk and the energy. #2: You set the rules on what is acceptable and what is not. #3: Your dog has to know that it’s you who calls the shots. Using this Golden Rule as a guide, letting your overexcited dog run out of the car like a sprinter immediately strikes out your chances of becoming in control of the walk. Read on to learn more about why the way dogs exit cars can make or break your outdoor walks. DOG CALMING CODE: THE PROGRAM THAT HELPS YOU LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES The Way Dogs Exit Cars Influences How Your Walks Will Go If your dog sprints out the moment you open your door, they will be hard to control throughout your time outdoors. You see, the one who controls the walk matters to dogs. If you control the walk, your dog will listen. If you let them run the show, they'll do things on their terms. Now, most dog owners don't make anything big out of the way your dog eject themselves out of cars. But I'm here to tell you that how they leave the car matters in the grand scheme of your dog's time outside. Let me give you an analogy… When I was younger, my parents brought us to exciting trips. My siblings and I would run out of the car, so excited to just be out there. That often gave my parents a hard time because calling us back was impossible once we were out. They needed our help, but we shut them off. My parents learned some hard lessons from those experiences. The next time we went on a trip, they made sure to talk to us before we headed out. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE "You help out first before you play," mom and dad would say. It was easier for us to follow their orders since they set the instructions. And if they did ask us to do something, we immediately listened. We knew what we had to do. We knew what was expected of us. It's pretty much the same with our dogs! If you've ever gone outdoors with your dog, you’ve probably experienced dealing with a hyperactive dog that just doesn't listen no matter how many times you call! They pull the leash no matter how hard you pull back. They also get snappy with almost every dog they meet, making socialization really hard. How to Help Dogs Exit Calmly So, how do you execute this simple hack for a calmer, more relaxed time with your dog outdoors? Really, really, really be the CEO of the walk, and the boss of every step! Here are some ways you can follow below: #1: Open the Door Calmly The operative word here is calm. It's like dog training's prime rule: when you're calm, your dogs are calm, too. You can encourage your dogs to also be in a calm mood by not being agitated, anxious, or restless yourself. Try not to be jittery or preoccupied before opening the car door. Don't raise your voice or get angry when you...

If I asked you to write down at least three dog-walking problems, I am sure I’d find leash pulling and misbehaving somewhere on that list. Why? Because almost 80% of those who come to me for help on walking their dog have those issues. And here’s the truth: the solution is fairly simple. The problem starts when dog owners dismiss their dog's little quirks and defiance during walks as nothing serious… until they are. Fortunately, you can flip the switch by doing one simple thing: really making your dog see you’re in charge. How? Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways LEARN HOW TO WALK YOUR DOG THE RIGHT WAY WITH DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #5! Table of Contents Stop Dog-walking Problems By Taking Control of the WalkStop Dog-Walking Problems: What Happens When You Take Control of the Walk with DogsStop Dog-Walking Problems By Taking Charge… Not Only On Walks. The Dog Calming Code Will Help You! Stop Dog-walking Problems By Taking Control of the Walk The most common cause of dog-walking issues like leash pulling, barking, and getting excited by just about anything is this: your dog thinks they're in control. It's like the case of "whoever gets in the driver's seat first decides where the trip goes." When the dog sees they have taken over the "driver duties" during the walk, expect them to drive… even if it requires pulling the leash, running without your permission, and chasing everything! Yes, they would do all these things despite your non-stop commands of "No, no, no, no!" So it's absolutely critical that control is in your court… and your dog has to know it! Here are some ways you can do that. #1: Take Control Even Before You Start the Walk If you start exhibiting control after leaving the house, you already lost it. Control is solidified when you're the one to decide when to take the walk. "Doggy Dan, what do you mean by this?" I want you to think of this: who decides to go for a walk? If your dog approached you with a leash in their mouth, prodding you to take them outside, AND YOU AGREED, you have lost control. Let's say your dog goes to you to signal they want to go out; here's what you can do… Ignore them for five minutes, then give the cue that it's time for a walk. You're doing this not to make your dog feel ignored but to establish your role as the ultimate decision-maker in walk-related matters. DOG CALMING CODE: THE PROGRAM THAT HELPS YOU LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES #2: Your Dog Will Persist in Regaining Control… You Can Gently Remind Them With This Move Dogs understand control. In fact, dogs are so keen in having it because it's programmed in them that control is necessary for survival. So you will see a lot of attempts to take charge of the walk or get in front of you so they can control the walk. (Bonus note: dogs also try to take control of the walk because they are sometimes very protective and feel responsible for protecting you.) The great thing about dogs is they're quick to get the message. Once you do something that tells them "Hey, I got it. I'm in charge," they will adapt. If your dog makes a run for the door to ensure they go first, do this gentle move: calmly block their way with your legs, open the door, and go first. #3: And If Your Dog Insists on Taking Charge of The Walk, Pausing for a While Works If your dog persists, insisting on being the one in charge, stop the steps. Refrain from continuing the walk until they get the message that you decide what happens with your time outdoors. Doing this simple step is like giving your dog an outdoor timeout. Once your dog gets that you stopped because of their rowdy behavior, they will listen to you. Stop for a few minutes until your dog calms down and understands the message. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE #4: Wrap Up the Walk When Needed If rowdiness persists, you should be quick on stopping and heading back home. I know this can feel heartbreaking for you and your dog, but it's one...

Dogs don’t always say what they’re feeling, so it’s understandable why we want to know the reason why dogs yelp. Each sound our dog makes is crucial; it can signify hunger, distress, and pain. So it’s no surprise our dogs’ sudden yelping sounds can make us spring into protective, worrying mode. Yes, a yelping dog can be a dog in pain. But a dog letting out a high-pitched, petrifying sound isn’t always a pained dog… and it’s an essential truth owners should understand. Key Takeaways: BE THE LEADER YOUR DOG NEEDS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: The Other Reason Why Dogs Yelp: For Dogs, It’s All About LeadershipWhy Do Dogs Yelp During an Intense Interaction With Other DogsWhy Dogs Yelp Reason #1: Yelping is a Sound of ConcedingWhy Dogs Yelp Reason #2: Yelping is a Shock Factor to Make the Other Dog Stop ChargingWhy You Should Not Immediately Intervene Between Two Dogs in a RumbleDealing with Dog Rumbles: When Do I Step In?The Doggy Dan Dog Calming Code: Becoming the Leader In Your Dog’s Eyes… The Gentle Way The Other Reason Why Dogs Yelp: For Dogs, It’s All About Leadership Here’s a truth I truly embrace: dogs are all about the hierarchy. Knowing who leads and who follows is business #1. When dogs meet, they first sort out leadership because dogs are BIG on leadership. (Thus, the reason for the creation of my popular course, The Dog Calming Code™️ , which you can learn more about below.) If you can observe two dogs that just met at the park, there’s a high chance you’ll catch them growling and seemingly testing the other. Eventually, they will engage in a brawl, a classic way of challenging one another. After a few minutes of commotion, everything gets back to normal. The two dogs fighting earlier will start to interact without any aggression. When two dogs stop fighting or challenging each other, they have already settled who the leader is and who the follower is. THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE #1 PROGRAM YOU NEED FOR CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Why Do Dogs Yelp During an Intense Interaction With Other Dogs Where does yelping come in? Somewhere during the brawl, one of the dogs might let out a sharp cry. (Think: loud, human shriek). It’s a sound that can make any dog owner spring to their feet. But here’s what I want dog owners to know: a yelp isn’t always an indication of pain. Of course, keep an eye on the dog fight and intervene when physical harm is involved. However, I encourage you to also assess the situation BEFORE immediately getting between two dogs. KNOW WHY THE DOG CALMING CODE IS TRUSTED BY OVER 88,000 DOG OWNERS Why? Because yelping can also mean two things: a.) It’s a sound of conceding. b.) it’s a shock factor to tell other dogs, “Stop chasing me. You win.” Why Dogs Yelp Reason #1: Yelping is a Sound of Conceding Dogs understand the value of leadership more than they show. Because of this reason, a dog will not back down until they’ve established themselves as the leader. However, the screaming will start when a dog sees they’re at a disadvantage. The scream that they let out isn’t always a scream of pain. When another dog pins them down, their scream can mean, “Okay, enough. You win. You’re the leader!” It’s like tapping out in a wrestling match, a sure way to communicate surrender. THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE ONLINE DOG TRAINING PROGRAM THAT CAN CHANGE DOG BEHAVIOR Why Dogs Yelp Reason #2: Yelping is a Shock Factor to Make the Other Dog Stop Charging To explain this part, I’m sharing the story of my two kids, Stanley and Sage. Like what children normally do, Stan and Sage would have really intense playtime that could end up in shrieks and cries. There was this one time where Sage, out of nowhere, let out a blood-curdling shriek. Of course, I was very worried. I dropped what I was doing and charged inside the house. “Sage, what did he do to you?” I asked my daughter. She simply said “Oh, nothing. I just didn’t want him to catch me.” And it made sense to me! Screaming so...

What do you do when your dog's energy levels spike from a 3 to an 8? My answer as a top dog trainer: the Calm Freeze. I know it's daunting seeing your dog transform from well-behaved and calm to rowdy and agitated in the blink of an eye. But here's an important fact I've learned from years of working with dogs and their owners: you, as a dog owner, possess the remarkable ability to transform your dog's behavior from hyperactive and agitated to calm and relaxed. And the Calm Freeze has been proven to bring back your dog's calm and relaxed demeanor WITHOUT having to use any product or tool. I trust it so much I even use it on my dogs. In today's blog, I will talk about the Calm Freeze and how this technique can calm your dogs without tools, words, products, or even force. Key Takeaways LEARN HOW TO BE THE LEADER YOUR DOG NEEDS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents What is a Calm Freeze?How Do You Perform The Calm Freeze? Here's a Step-by-Step ProcessWhy The Calm Freeze Works in Calming DogsWhen Can You Use the Calm Freeze?The Calm Freeze is a Great Way to Let Your Dogs Know You're in ChargeThe Calm Freeze: The Technique That Tells Dogs "Look at Me, I'm Calm. I Want You to Be Calm, Too." What is a Calm Freeze? The Calm Freeze is a strategic approach to soothe a hyperactive, stressed, anxious, or restless dog. It's more than just a technique; it's an understanding of your dog's emotional state and a way to communicate peace and stability. This method isn't about physical restraint but about emotional resonance. By using the Calm Freeze, you're not just controlling your dog's actions but also influencing their emotional state, bringing them from a place of hyper to stillness. How Do You Perform The Calm Freeze? Here's a Step-by-Step Process Step 1: Begin By Calmly Guiding Your Dog Towards You This initial step sets the tone for the entire process — it's crucial that your approach is cool and composed. Don't start the Calm Freeze by shouting or forcing your dog to come to you; this can potentially create more resistance. Step 2: With a Gentle, Upturned hand, Lightly Hold Your Dog's Collar The emphasis here is on gentleness. Your dog will pick up on your calm energy, which, in turn, helps them to relax. Use a finger or two to hold the collar securely. Like I mentioned above, your dog will understand your energy more than your words. When you are calm, your dog will replicate that. THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE #1 PROGRAM YOU NEED FOR CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Step 3: Maintain Your Calm Demeanor Your steady presence can be a powerful calming force even if your dog shows signs of agitation, fear, or restlessness. Your calming presence also helps your dog regulate their energy and emotions. Step 4: If Your Dog Tries to Bite You, Put Them in Timeout If your dog reacts negatively, such as attempting to bite, guide them calmly into a timeout. This pause allows both you and your dog to settle any heightened emotions. Step 5: Gradually Loosen Your Hold and Release Your Dog Once you start to sense their energy levels going down to a 2 or a 3, slowly release your hold. This step is important as it signifies the end of the calming process and a return to normalcy. Why The Calm Freeze Works in Calming Dogs It's a Technique That Dogs Understand Dogs are acutely sensitive to energy. When you, their owner, embody calmness, you're speaking their language. You're giving them cues they understand better than any verbal signal. The Operative Word is "Calm" The ultimate goal of the Calm Freeze is to help dogs bring down their spiked energy levels. Imagine this: asking your dog to calm down through shouting, or threatening them, or getting angry. It doesn't make sense. In your dog's eyes, your words and actions don't click. Following your instructions becomes so much harder. KNOW WHY THE DOG CALMING CODE IS TRUSTED BY OVER 88,000 DOG OWNERS The Calm Freeze believes in this: a gentle approach fosters a peaceful...

The reason why dogs need timeout is because they don't naturally understand human language. If you want to give consequences or correction for a specific dog behavior, you must speak a language your dog totally understands. And that’s where timeouts come in. The thing about timeout for dogs is that it's so simple. And because it's so simple, it's also so easy to overcomplicate and done wrong. Some dog owners don't tap into the power of using timeouts to correct behavior. Some also fail to apply it effectively, leaving dogs to miss the significance of their actions' consequences. As a top dog trainer who swears by timeouts, I'm here to tell you that if you're training your dog, timeout is something you should NEVER overlook or toss aside. Read on to know more. Key Takeaways DOG CALMING CODE: THE TRAINING PROGRAM FOR RAISING CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS Table of Contents Dogs Need Timeout: The Number One Mistake Dog Owners Do When Correcting Negative BehaviorWhy Dogs Need Timeout: Why a Timeout Is An Effective Way of Disciplining DogsWhy Dogs Need TimeoutThe Two Things You Can Do to Make Timeout for Dogs EffectiveFAQs About Timeout for DogsUsing Timeout for Dogs Can Speed Up Your Training Success! Dogs Need Timeout: The Number One Mistake Dog Owners Do When Correcting Negative Behavior Let me share a common scenario I'm sure you're familiar with. Your dog shows negative behaviors — perhaps barking non-stop or chewing on cables, or jumping on guests — which finally gets to your nerves. If you don't do timeouts, you’d more than likely reprimand your dog in a booming voice, "STOP IT!" and then never follow through with a correction or a form of discipline that teaches the dog not to repeat the behavior. The dog knows you are angry, but do they know why? Addressing dog behavior requires a thoughtful approach, and it goes beyond mere reactionary measures. Shouting might momentarily startle the dog, but it fails to instill a lasting lesson that prompts your dog to change negative behavior. The dog, bewildered and possibly frightened, may temporarily stop the behavior, yet the underlying issue remains unaddressed. In such circumstances, your dog is likely to repeat the undesirable action, as the shouting has not effectively communicated correction or what is expected of them. PUPPY COACH: START TRAINING YOUR PUPPIES WITH THE PROGRAM THAT HAS HELPED THOUSANDS This is where the concept of timeout plays a pivotal role in behavioral correction. In dog communication, a timeout is an essential tool. It's not just the act of separation; it's a clear, non-violent message that the dog's behavior was unacceptable. Unlike shouting, which can be both unclear and stressful, a timeout is a direct and consistent response. It teaches the dog that their actions have direct consequences. And this is when change happens. (Check out this blog I wrote about how to make sure you do your timeouts effectively.) Why Dogs Need Timeout: Why a Timeout Is An Effective Way of Disciplining Dogs Dogs love their freedom! Dogs love you! And when you're nearby, they're all about being near you. This is why during a timeout — when dogs are temporarily separated from you and denied their chance of running around — correcting negative dog behavior becomes impactful. This removal is not about isolation but about providing a moment of pause, a break in the pattern that leads to undesirable behavior. In this quiet space, your dog has an opportunity to calm down and reset. They will also begin to figure out why they were put in timeout. Dogs are so fast in associating actions to consequences, they'll get the reason why they are in timeout quickly. Timeout does not use force — this is why it's effective. When you use force, fear, or intimidation, the dog will only feel the energy but never see the lesson. Without timeout, you just inflict fear to your dog but never leave a lasting lesson. CALMER DOGS START WITH THE RIGHT TRAINING. START WITH THE DOG...

The reason for using a short line for dogs boils down to this: control. It sounds extreme, but in dog psychology, the one in control is the one in charge. And when your dog runs under tables and around the garden uncontrollably, and you're having a hard time catching them, you're not in control! The short line for dogs helps you regain control without raising your voice, resorting to harsh strategies, and losing your composure (news flash: in your dog's eyes, a rattled dog owner is NOT a worthy pack leader). Let's talk more about why you should ABSOLUTELY include the short line in your arsenal of helpful dog training tools. Key Takeaways LEARN HOW TO BE THE LEADER YOUR DOG NEEDS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents Using the Short Line for Dogs: What Is It?5 Reasons Why Using the Short Line for Dogs Can Change Your DogGuide to Using the Short Line for DogsUsing The Short Line + The Dog Calming Code Can Transform Your Dogs Using The Short Line for Dogs: What Is It? The short line is a fairly simple tool: a basic lead attached to a dog's harness. This lead's length ranges between 1-2 meters. No fancy instructions are involved; all you need to do is to attach it to your dog's harness safely. As simple as it is, the short line can transform training. Dogs are brilliant, and they understand the concept of control. Do you notice how they run away whenever you chase them? The reason is this: dogs know that as long as you miss them, they win. They're in charge. You have lost control and, therefore, also lose your authority. When the dogs perceive that they can do whatever they want without you being able to correct it, they assume leadership. They see themselves as the pack leader. And the pack leader is firm in their ways. When dogs think they're the leader, they are much harder to train. This is the reason why I love the short line. When you use a short line, you tell your dog, "No, you're not in charge. I am. I can control you when I need to." Slowly, as your dog sees that you can simply use the line to catch them, they will realize that they are not the leader. It's like playing a game of tag! When it's apparent that someone can't catch us no matter what they do, we feel like we rule the game. It's a different story when the opponent is capable in every way! We become more aware that we're not the top players, and we have to be mindful of what other people will do. THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE #1 PROGRAM YOU NEED FOR CALMER, WELL-BEHAVED DOGS 5 Reasons Why Using the Short Line for Dogs Can Change Your Dog There's so much that goes into training a dog THE RIGHT WAY. Using a tool like the short line can improve training and address issues such as: One single short line = tons of perks. Here are three reasons why using the short line can change your dog… and your overall training experience! Reason #1: It Makes Training Easier It's hard to train a dog that is always running away from you. With the short line, training sessions become less of a power struggle and more of a cooperative effort between you and your dog. Using a short leash helps you handle your dog better in different situations without needing to shout. It creates a peaceful atmosphere for both you and your dog. When you use the short line properly, you are not leading with aggression but guiding with gentle firmness. When your dog knows you have the end of the short line, they pay closer attention, learning commands more quickly. In their eyes, you have taken the leadership from them. The short line reduces distractions for your dog, making it easier for them to focus on your instructions and smooths out the training process for both of you. KNOW WHY THE DOG CALMING CODE IS TRUSTED BY OVER 88,000 DOG OWNERS Reason #2: You Regain Control Using a short line pulls the reins of control back into your hands—quite literally. In the wild dance of chasing your dog around the yard, the short line is your dance partner that never steps on your...

A whistle for dog recall training is a very important tool that some dog owners overlook. Of course, I recommend you go for solutions that work best for you and your dog. If you've put in all possible effort to train your dog to come when called, and still haven't had any success, the dog recall training whistle is a tool that you absolutely must not underestimate. In this blog, we're going to talk about using a whistle, and why it's a need especially if you want to have dog training success. Let's dive in. Key Takeaways A BETTER WAY TO START DOG RECALL TRAINING? START WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents Why I Recommend the Whistle for Dog Recall TrainingWhat to Look for in a Whistle for Dog Recall TrainingWhistle for Dog Recall Training: Strategies and Tips Dog Owners Should UnderstandIs Your Dog Still Not Responding To Your Calls? Why I Recommend the Whistle for Dog Recall Training I live in the countryside where roads come with rushing cars. I love letting my dogs explore freely, but I also make sure they're still safe. My dogs are trained, and they come when I call. But, I still carry a whistle with me every time we go out because my dogs are also adventurous; I need to make sure they don't stray off to dangerous places. You can say that I'm a top dog trainer that doesn't rely on my voice alone for dog recall training. Here are several reasons why… Dog Recall Whistle Comes With a Powerful Sound That Dogs Can Associate With In my decade of training dogs, I've come to realize the sheer power of simplicity. The whistle is a prime example of that. Unlike the complex modulations of the human voice, a whistle emits a clear, piercing tone that a dog's ear can pick up and distinguish from the distraction of everyday sounds. This crisp sound is unique, making it easier for dogs to associate it with a specific command: recall. DOG CALMING CODE: TEACHING DOG OWNERS TRAIN DOGS BETTER You Reserve Your Voice for The Really Important Commands Your shout should be reserved for the most important communications: when you need to connect with your dog, or when you give the most crucial instructions. Using your voice all the time, especially over distances or in distracting environments, won't be as effective over time. If you're constantly shouting your dog's name during recall training, your dog will find it hard to understand that your voice = urgent. The whistle? It's calm, it's controlled, and it's constant. Because they know the sound of the whistle means "Come back here!" your dogs will come running back to you, no shouting involved. It Reaches Longer Distances and Stands Out Among the Sounds Dog recall training whistles are not just for the training field— they are vital tools for ensuring your dog's safety in the great outdoors. A dog's hearing is finely tuned to pick up high-pitched sounds, which is why a whistle's sound can travel further than the human voice, standing out amongst nature's buzz or the clamor of the city. Whistle for Dog Recall Training Has a Sound Dogs Can Get Familiar With Consistency is key in any form of training. Unlike our voices, which can sound different when we are tired, frustrated, or excited, a whistle's tone doesn't change. This consistency means your dog can get familiar with it quickly, recognizing it as a signal for a specific action: to return to you. PUPPY COACH™️: DOGGY DAN’S PROGRAM FOR TRAINING PUPPIES THE RIGHT WAY. What to Look for in a Whistle for Dog Recall Training If you're going for a whistle for dog recall, what should you choose? I recommend checking out these factors, so you'll get the whistle that's best for you. Durable Material When you're in the market for a whistle, think of it as an investment in your dog's safety. You'll want one that withstands the elements, accidental drops, and even the occasional chew if it falls into curious jaws. Durability ensures the sound remains consistent, which is what matters most for effective recall...

Training tips for aggressive dogs flood the internet, all promising miraculous results! There’s a mix of positive reinforcement, showering dogs with treats, and even giving dogs really scary punishments! While all these solutions work for a while, I know one thing from my experience as a top dog trainer: you need to get to the heart of the problem to see real progress. The key to addressing snappy behavior in dogs goes beyond mere techniques. In this article, I'll explore why even non-aggressive dogs can become snappy and aggressive. By understanding these root causes, we can use a more gentle yet effective training to transform our beloved dogs into well-behaved and calm pets. Key Takeaway LEARN HOW TO HANDLE SNAPPY DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents Why Are Snappy Dogs Different From Most Aggressive DogsTraining Tips for Aggressive Dogs: The 2 BIGGEST Reasons Behind Snappy BehaviorHow Being The Pack Leader Can Help Snappy DogsTraining Snappy Dogs: What Causes Snappy Dog Behavior?9 Training Tips for Aggressive DogsHow the Dog Calming Code Can Change Snappy Dogs Why Are Snappy Dogs Different From Most Aggressive Dogs? First, let’s talk about why snappy dogs are unique dogs, especially when it comes to aggression. Snappy dogs possess a unique behavioral trait, distinct from outright aggression. Their inclination to snap arises primarily from fear and boundary concerns. Unlike overtly aggressive dogs, they may not intend harm but resort to snapping when they sense perceived threats. You can see this in small dogs getting barky and feisty once you touch them. You can also see this in seemingly calm dogs whose energy levels spike up from a level two to a level nine when their personal space is threatened. This behavior often emerges when unfamiliar people or situations encroach on their comfort zones or possessions. Snappy dogs are not inherently aggressive but exhibit a protective mechanism driven by apprehension. Understanding this uniqueness is vital for responsible ownership, emphasizing patience, positive training, and creating secure environments to help these dogs overcome their fears and develop more confident, non-snappy behavior. UNDERSTAND SNAPPY DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Training Tips for Aggressive Dogs: The 2 BIGGEST Reasons Behind Snappy Behavior REASON #1: Your Dog is Always on High Alert Because They Think They Are In Charge. For dogs, survival is the name of the game. Therefore, when they think they are the ONLY ONES dealing with danger, dogs become fiercely protective. Our dogs are instinctively wired to seek a leader within their pack. When they perceive a lack of clear leadership, they become anxious and agitated, always on high alert for potential threats. This constant unease can lead to snappy and aggressive behavior as they attempt to assert control and protect themselves. REASON #2: They Are Protective of Their Space Consider this scenario: you're walking down the street, and a stranger suddenly comes up to you and say "Oh you're so cute, I love you!" You'd likely feel violated and possibly react angrily. After all, somebody just got into your space without permission. Dogs are no different; they can become snappy when they feel their territory or personal space is threatened. And for dogs, space is a big deal! This crossing of boundaries is a common scenario among small, popular breed dogs. These dogs are stranger magnets because they can be so adorable; being constantly mobbed by strangers can make them feel overly-protective and aggressive. How Being The Pack Leader Can Help Snappy Dogs Being a pack leader is crucial in addressing snappy dog behavior for several reasons. First, Dogs Have a Natural Instinct to Establish a Hierarchy Within Their Social Groups If they perceive themselves as the leader, they may feel responsible for handling threats or dangers around them, something that can contribute to snappish behavior. You can flip this by...

Doggy Dan, why is my dog overexcited? Also, how to calm overexcited dogs? I often get this question from dog owners dealing with dogs that are always all over the place, jumping on the couch, on them, and on other dogs. They bark, run, and lunge all because they are excited… something that causes a lot of stress not only to their owners but to other dogs as well. These overexcited dogs often get shouted at or barked at because they're constantly invading space, always not listening. In other words, these dogs always get into trouble. And who wants that for their dogs, right? You're in the right place if you have an overexcited dog and want to get to the bottom of the issue. If you're looking for ways to calm an overexcited dog, I have important tips. Read on. Key Takeaways LEARN HOW TO HANDLE OVEREXCITED DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents: How to Calm Overexcited Dogs: What Are the Signs to Look Out ForWhat Causes a Dog to be Overexcited?When You Show Leadership, You Calm an Overexcited DogApart From Being the Pack Leader, How Do You Calm an Overexcited Dog?How the Dog Calming Code Can Change Your Overexcited Do How to Calm Overexcited Dogs: What Are the Signs to Look Out For Is your dog really just happy or are they starting to show signs of being an overexcited dog? The easiest way to tell is to look at the signs. From non-stop barking to hyperactive jumping, here are some critical signs that you have an overexcited dog who needs help. Sign #1: Incessant Barking (AKA A Dog Who Just Can’t Stop Barking Because of Excitement) This dog is relatively easy to spot. An overexcited dog barks at other people or dogs to get their attention. It's like saying, "Hey, I want to play. Notice me! I'm here!" And when attention is not given, the barking gets more and more persistent. An overexcited dog may bark persistently and excessively, often without reason. This non-stop barking behavior is always a manifestation of heightened arousal, and these dogs often continue barking despite attempts to calm them down. In short, simply telling your dog to "Stop barking!" does not really work. Sign #2: Hyperactive Jumping When faced with excitement, a dog might jump uncontrollably, especially when greeting their owners or encountering new visitors. This jumping can become particularly overwhelming, making it challenging for the dog to focus or listen to commands. UNDERSTAND OVEREXCITED DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Sign #3: Hyperactive Pacing When your dog gets their excitement meter through the roof, they often engage in rapid and erratic pacing, making them unable to settle down or relax. Once your dog gets piqued up, they will find it hard to really calm down or tune in. Sign #4: Inability to Remain Still Overexcitement may render a dog unable to remain still, even for short periods. You can see it in how they fidget, shift positions, or show restlessness. Sign #5: Overzealous Playfulness That May Escalate Into Rough or Aggressive Behavior Overexcited dogs might demonstrate excessive enthusiasm during playtime, which can sometimes turn into overly rough behavior or even aggression. Especially when the other dog don't share their excitement! This behavior can result from the dog's inability to regulate their excitement levels, leading to potential behavioral challenges during interactions with other animals or people. What Causes a Dog to be Overexcited? Understanding the underlying triggers contributing to a dog's overexcitement is CRUCIAL in devising the best training plan for managing their exuberant behavior. When you understand the cause of dog overexcitement, it helps you address the issue clearly. You'll also know how to correct this issue in its roots. Reason #1: Your Dog Thinks They’re the Leader, Thus the Heightened Energy If you don’t establish yourself as the pack leader, dogs will take on that role. And when they do, they will find it difficult to regulate their excitement...

If you are wondering how to deal with an overprotective dog, you MUST know that these animals are NOT naturally inclined to cause harm. In fact, dog aggression from overprotectiveness is a case of a dog’s desire to keep harm away from you and the property they’re protecting. But when is a protective dog too much? And how do you deal with an aggressive, overprotective dog? In this blog, we’re going to talk about dog aggression coming from overprotectiveness and how you, as a dog owner, can help your dogs. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways LEARN HOW TO HANDLE OVERPROTECTIVE DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents How to Deal with an Overprotective Dog: Why Are Dogs So Overprotective?What Role Do You Play in Dealing with an Overprotective Dog: Take Charge!9 Signs of an Overprotective Dog8 Ways To Deal with an Overprotective DogHow to Deal With an Overprotective Dog: The Dog Calming Code Can Help You! How to Deal with an Overprotective Dog: Why Are Dogs so Overprotective? What is an overprotective dog? This kind of dog is easy to spot. One of the overprotective dog types is the “security guard” dog. They usually spring up at the very first sound of the doorbell. Their energy levels can go from 2 to an instant 10! They get up from their little corner to run and bark at the person or animal on the other side of the door. The other kind is the “border patrol” dog. This overprotective dog restlessly goes around the property checking on gates and fences and making sure nothing gets in. Although different, these dogs exhibit aggressive behaviors that drive their dog owners crazy. UNDERSTAND OVERPROTECTIVE DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE But really, what causes a dog to be overprotective? Dealing with an Overprotective Dog: This Dog Thinks They Are in Charge The number one reason for a dog who charges towards the door from the slightest knock or from a doorbell is this: they think they’re in charge. Let me explain through an analogy… Let’s say you come visit my house. I ask you to sit, give you refreshments, and entertain you with conversation. All of a sudden, the doorbell rings. Will you get up to get it? You would probably say “No, I won’t because it’s not my house.” You know that it’s not your job to answer the door. That’s the homeowners job because they’re in charge of everything related to their home. And it’s the same with our dogs: because they think it’s their responsibility to answer to anyone who comes near the house, they go frantic at the sound of a doorbell, or bark when someone gets too close to your property. They think they’re the leader of the house, so they are the first to the door. They think they’re in charge of you and the property, so they rove and guard non-stop to keep you safe. In short, these dogs are stressed, agitated, exhausted, and just can’t relax. All they have on their mind is protect, protect, protect. So how can you help? TEACH YOUR DOG HOW TO SWITCH OFF BY BEING THE PACK LEADER WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE What Role Do You Play in Dealing with an Overprotective Dog: Take Charge! In your relationship with your dog, who is responsible for answering the door? You could say that “My dog knows I am the one in charge.” But do they really? If your dog believes they are in charge, they will continue to be aggressive towards anyone near the door or fence. The “security guard” and the “border patrol” dogs are constantly barking at the door, constantly patrolling the area with an aggressive energy because they think they’re in charge of it! You're a big deal in your dog's world, and that can sometimes lead to them being a tad overprotective. In your dog’s eyes, you and the property are priority #1. But you don’t want that! You just want your dogs to be calm and chill, and let you do all the worrying. WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE, YOU CAN HELP YOUR DOGS CALM DOWN AND SWITCH OFF Here’s where the challenge comes in. You’re probably thinking “I need to get a...

When you deal with a fear biter, you have to understand that this dog’s tendency to bite is not fueled by the desire to simply bite. These fear biters are fierce protectors. When dog owners come to me and ask about aggression due to fear, I tell them when they deal with a fear biter, they have to halt the training until they solve the problem on a deeper level. Because most of the time, fear-based aggression that causes biting is not a matter of lack of training but a lack of tactic. In this blog, I’m going to talk about the number one reason why dogs bite due to fear, and how you — their dog owner — can actually change fear biters. Key Takeaways UNDERSTAND FEAR BITERS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents How to Deal with a Fear Biter: The #1 Reason a Fear Biter BitesHow to Deal With a Fear Biter: Change Dog Biting Aggression By Being the Pack LeaderSo… How Do You Become the Pack Leader That Stops Fear Biting Aggression?How to Deal with a Fear Biter: How Being a Pack Leader Changes Biting Due to Fear AggressionHow to Deal With Biting Due to Fear Aggression: Other Reasons Why Dogs Become Fear BitersFear Biting Dogs: What Are The Signs to Look Out For?How to Change the Fear Biting Aggression in DogsHow to Deal with a Fear Biter: Let the Dog Calming Code Help You! How to Deal with a Fear Biter: The #1 Reason a Fear Biter Bites So why do fearful dogs bite? Like what I always mention in my previous blogs, dogs fueled by fear are driven by their primal responsibility to protect. This issue puzzles dog owners: they usually have a pretty well-mannered dog, until a perceived danger or threat comes near. They immediately show their fangs, and they don’t hesitate biting anything or anyone who they think disrupts safety. I want to emphasize again: fear biters don’t just bite out of habit — they perceive themselves as the one in charge of their owners and their property so… they bite to protect. Here’s a scenario that can explain it better. As parents, we’re actually pretty chill when we’re alone. It’s a different story when we have kids that are under our care. We become more wary about things around us — even anxious! — and always on the edge to protect our kids from the danger of strangers and threatening circumstances. Why? Because we know that when it comes to our kids, we are the ones in charge. And it’s the same with our dogs. Of course they will be scared. Of course they will be protective! TEACH YOUR DOG HOW TO SWITCH OFF BY BEING THE PACK LEADER WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE The fearful biter is a dog that sees themselves as the pack leader and they want the source of danger to know that. They bite to make the danger stay away. So how do you let the fear biter know that there’s nothing they should be worried — or biting — about? How to Deal With a Fear Biter: Change Dog Biting Aggression By Being the Pack Leader Dealing with a fear biter requires both understanding and proactive steps. Becoming the pack leader is a powerful way to effectively address your dog's fear aggression. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it: Our Dogs Have to Know That They Are Not the Leader, It’s Us Dogs often have a natural tendency to assume leadership, which can lead to constant anxiety, vigilance, and eventually fear-based aggression. The best remedy is to assert ourselves as the leaders. Here's how: #1: Stay Calm in the Face of Danger Dogs pick up on our reactions. When they sense danger, try to remain composed. Even if their barking or biting tendencies can get into you, demonstrate that you are unfazed. Let them see that you acknowledge the situation but are not troubled by it. This reassures them that there's nothing to worry about because YOU will do all the worrying. #2: Use Calm and Consistent Corrections If your dog continues to exhibit anxious or aggressive behavior despite your calm leadership, use calm and consistent corrections, such as timeouts. Over time, this can help reinforce your...

The question of how to handle a bossy, dominant dog is common among dog owners who are exhausted, frustrated, and overwhelmed by their bossy dogs. Bossy, dominant dogs have a distinct characteristic: they always want to be in charge over every dog they encounter. They love challenging authority, they display brute strength, and they don’t hesitate in showing aggression. One can say “Oh, but that’s just a dog’s personality!” Though it can be true, dominant behavior not corrected can lead to more serious challenges including your dog dominating you. Stopping aggression in dogs is crucial to avoid other problems including your dog hurting another dog, a disorganized home, and having a dog that just doesn’t listen to you. If you have an aggressive dog, you’re in the right place… In this blog we’re going to talk about the dog psychology behind aggression, the 8 powerful strategies to stop aggression due to dominance, and the mistakes dog owners make that set their dogs back. Key Takeaways Dog Calming Code™️ program TRAIN BOSSY AND AGGRESSIVE DOGS BETTER WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE Table of Contents How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior: What’s Going on In a Bossy Dog’s Mind?How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior: Aggressive Dog Signs and What They MeanHow to Tell When a Dominant Aggressive Dog is Asserting Their Dominance on YouTraining a Dominant Dog: 10 Best Strategies to Stop Dominant Dog AggressionFive Mistakes Dog Owners Make That Cause Dog DominanceLearn How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior with the Dog Calming Code How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior: What’s Going on In a Bossy Dog’s Mind? What truly drives your dog's need to assert dominance and display aggression? Let me give the explanation through a common scenario often encountered by dog owners with aggressive and bossy dogs. Picture this: when you take your bossy pet to the park, they tend to gravitate towards other dogs, sizing them up. Dogs typically approach each other with erect ears, engaging in a circling ritual as they assess one another. Soon enough, you might hear a chorus of barks, each dog unrelenting! So, why do they behave this way? Especially when there is no food or toy around? The answer is rather straightforward: they exhibit aggression because they want to know who is in charge. The bossy aggression happens when your dog perceives themselves as the alpha… the leader of the pack, so to speak. They have this HUGE need to assert themselves, and if either you or another dog fails to comply with their desires, they resort to aggressive behaviors to assert their dominance. WANT TO TRAIN A DOMINANT DOG? THE DOG CALMING CODE CAN HELP YOU! How to Handle Dominant Dog Behavior: Aggressive Dog Signs and What They Mean Signs of aggression in a dominant dog is different from a dog with aggression driven by fear. The aggressive behavior of bossy dogs come from their want to assert authority and put other dogs in their place. Dog owners, knowing these signs by heart can protect you and your other pets from aggressive outbursts of your bossy dog. Here are aggressive dog signs that gives you the cue you need to remind your dog “Hey, it’s me who is in control here.” Barking Is your bossy dog the king of non-stop barking? Dogs use barking as a means to assert themselves as the leader of the pack. It’s their way of commanding attention, demanding for resources, or forcing compliance from other dogs or humans. It's a vocal display of their perceived authority. Growling Growling is a sign you can’t simply brush off! When a bossy dog growls, it's a clear warning that says “You are pushing the boundaries!” A bossy dog can resort to growling in instances such as: The growling can escalate to aggression if the perceived threat persists. It's a signal that the bossy dog believes they have the right to control the situation and are willing to use force if necessary. Stance That Says "I'm Ready to Fight" You’ve probably seen this if you have a...

If you’re eager to know how to help fearful dogs, I know where you’re coming from. Fearful dogs are exhausted. You can read their exhaustion through their habits and body language: they can’t easily sleep, they’re reactive, and they’re triggered by the littlest things. If you own a dog that is highly fearful, you already know telling them “Please, calm down” doesn’t work. So what do you do as a dog owner to truly pacify your dog’s fears? I’m sharing an IMPORTANT dog trainer tip I’ve learned through the years. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: RAISE CALMER DOGS, BRAVER DOGS WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE! Table of Contents: Dog Owners and Dog Fears: The Story of the Woman with a Reactive DogHow to Help Fearful Dogs: The #1 Reason For Your Dog’s Fearful EnergyHelping Fearful Dogs: Other Reasons Why Dogs Are Afraid10 Signs of a Fearful DogHow to Help Fearful Dogs at HomeHow to Help Fearful Dogs OutdoorsDog Calming Code: Helping Fearful Dogs Become Calmer and More Confident Dog Owners and Dog Fears: The Story of the Woman with a Reactive Dog My heart is close to dogs struggling with fears and anxiety. So when a lady told me that she had a problem with her reactive dog, I recommended a consultation. When I met them, I couldn’t sense any agitated energy in her dog. So we started rolling the camera to record the dog’s interactions as part of the consultation. (And boy, I’m sure glad we did!) When I asked them to walk, the dog was chill… until they had to walk past my dog. The woman’s dog snarled, barked, and poised to attack the other dog. That immediately made me wonder “What caused the change?” I knew the dog was reactive, but the way they shifted from calm to aggressive caught my attention. We decided to review the tapes to see what caused the change. And the moment I saw it, I immediately knew the exact reason. During the walk, both owner and dog carried a happy, calm energy. When the dog had to walk past my dog, the owner did a slight, almost unnoticeable tug on the leash. A gesture that meant “Hey, there’s a dog and I’m quite worried with what you’re going to do. Don’t come near him.” And the dog immediately thought “Oh, so that dog is danger!” The reasonable next step is for the dog to react to the threat — it was their way of protecting their owner from something they think is scary. WHAT MAKES BETTER, CALMER DOGS? THE DOG CALMING CODE IS THE ANSWER! CHECK IT OUT HERE. How to Help Fearful Dogs: The #1 Reason For Your Dog’s Fearful Energy I'm about to share a game-changing secret from my experience as a top dog trainer. When it comes to helping fearful dogs: your energy matters more than you might think. Now, let's dig deeper with a few questions: If you find yourself answering “yes” to all these questions, it’s time to understand a fundamental principle: “Energy Flows Where Your Attention Goes.” What does this mean, exactly? It means that if you're focused on things that trigger either YOUR fears or YOUR DOG'S fears, there's a good chance your dog will start to fear those things too. Let me illustrate this with an example: Think back to the woman I mentioned earlier. When she paid no mind to my dog, her dog remained calm and unbothered. But the moment she started to react with worry, her dog sensed that worry and began displaying fear-based aggression. Now, picture a different scenario: What if that woman— instead of panicking — decided to ignore my dog and redirect her dog's attention elsewhere? Do you think her dog would react with the same level of aggression? I'd bet my bottom dollar that the dog wouldn't be as aggressive. In essence, your energy and attention play a pivotal role in shaping your dog's feeling towards certain things. THE DOG CALMING CODE CAN HELP DOGS BEHAVE BETTER Helping Fearful Dogs: Other Reasons Why Dogs Are Afraid Now that I laid out the number one cause for dog’s fears — which is your own fear as a dog owner — it is also important to talk about the other reasons that...

Any loving dog owner gets concerned about the factors that cause dog stress. After all, we just want the best for our pets, from their physical to mental health. You can attribute the cause of dog stress to multiple factors: unhealthy upbringing, violent history, a chaotic environment, and strained relationships with owners and other dogs. But what most dog owners usually overlook is a stress trigger that affects more dogs than we know it: dog owner stress. Yes, you read that right: your stress as a dog owner affects the stress levels of your dogs. And although it is quite heartbreaking to know that dogs can absorb our stress, there’s a bright side: it is also YOU that can make it better for your beloved dogs. This is what I’m going to share with you today. Read on to learn more. What Research Says About Dog Owner Stress Being a Cause of Dog Stress A research found out that dog owners’ acute and long-term stress has a direct impact on their dog’s stress levels known as cortisol. In one of the studies published in the Scientific Report where a team studied 58 dog owners and their pets, it was discovered that stress are synchronized between dogs and the ones caring for them. Whenever dog owners get elevated stress, dogs exhibited a spike in cortisol as well. It also indicated that the closer the bond and the stronger the reliance, the more susceptible dogs are to absorbing their owner’s stress and emotions. The senior zoologist conducting the research, Lina Roth, emphasized that dogs truly understand their owners, especially in the emotional aspect. “Dogs are quite good at understanding humans,” Roth added. Hearing this can make a dog owner go “Awww…” but this sweet fact comes with a downside: when we’re sad and stressed, our dogs feel it, too. Your Dog Feels Emotions Rather Than Hear Words, And That’s One Thing That Causes Dog Stress I always say this: your dog can’t always hear what you say because your actions and emotions are louder than your words. When you communicate with a dog, they assess your body language and tone of voice to make sense of your words. You might say “I always tell my dog to calm down, Dan. I encourage them to not go crazy with stress!” But here’s a dog trainer insight: no matter how much you assure your dog, if your stress levels are through the roof, they will know. “Calm down” is just a phrase if your dog can see the worried, nervous, or annoyed energy behind your words. Your dog can go “Wait, why are they worried? Why do I sense panic? Should I worry? My owner looks worried so I think I should be, too!” And the cycle goes on and on: you’re wondering why your dog can’t seem to understand your request, while your dog can’t stop picking up the panic and frustration in your voice. As a top dog trainer that has seen this scenario play out thousands of times, here’s a simple rule I always encourage dog owners to remember: your dog is your mirror. Before they do anything, they must first see it in you. Your Dog Is Your Mirror: A Chill Dog Owner = A Chill Dog I have seen a real life example of a dog owner directly affecting the personality and energy levels of their pets. One day, while I was on my way to a consultation, I saw an interesting sight: a dog owner walking oh-so-calmly with his dog. From the get go, it would sound like nothing out of the ordinary. But the dog in this story is a pitbull. A dog that is so notorious, so scary, and always exuding boss energy! But on that day, I was totally taken by surprise at how calm the dog was. So calm, they follow their dog owner wherever he goes. The dog had no leash, and showed zen-like calmness. It only took one look for me to know why. His dog owner was absolutely chill. No worried stance, steps light and easy, and it looked like he was having a great time in their outdoor stroll. It confirmed to me: yes, indeed, the pitbull was chill because his owner was absolutely chill. Why Dog Owners Cause Dog Stress: Top 3 Reasons from...

If anyone comes to me for tips on how to get dogs to listen more, I always ask them to do this: “Think of the most connected, most effective conversations you’ve had with a loved one. Were they done with shouting, or were they filled with calm, understanding energy?” Surely, you would say the latter. And it’s true. As a parent, the most effective conversations I've had with my children are ones done in absolute calmness. No anger. Without raised voices. No hurtful words. And like what I mentioned in my book “What The Dogs Taught Me About Being A Parent”, it’s the same with our dogs! One of the best ways to make dogs listen and connect with us is to practice silence and calm energy whenever we communicate with them. Read on to learn more about this. Key Takeaways: CONNECT WITH YOUR DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: How to Get Dogs to Listen: We Listen More to Silence Than the NoiseWhy Silence Is Important in Making Dogs Listen to Us More5 Reasons Why a Dog Is Not Responding To You 3.1 Reason #1: They Are Overwhelmed 3.2 Reason #2: The Energy You Have Speaks Differently Than Your Voice 3.3 Reason #3: You're Shouting a Lot, and They No Longer Know What's Urgent and What's Not 3.4 Reason #4: You Are Not Connected with Your Dog 3.5 Reason #5: They Don't See You as a Leader They Can TrustUse this Quick Exercise on Silence and Calm Energy To Make Your Dog Listen More 4.1 Step 1: Start Your Day Quietly 4.2 Step 2: Observe the Effect on Your Dog 4.3 Step 3: Call Your Dog CalmlyHow to Get Dogs to Listen More: Why Yelling Is Not the Answer 5.1 Reason #1: Yelling Tells Your Dog You’re Not a Confident Leader, Making It Hard for Them to Follow You 5.2 Reason #2: Yelling — as a Knee Jerk Reaction — Rarely Builds Any Connection 5.3 Reason #3: If We Go About Yelling Every Time, Our Dog Will Constantly Carry a Stressed Energy With ThemThe Dog Calming Code: The Program That Helps Calm Dogs Down and Makes Them Listen More How To Get Dogs to Listen: We Listen More to Silence Than The Noise Let me share a simple story that shows why quiet moments matter when communicating with dogs. My wife and I went on a double date with our friends one evening. We all started chatting in the car and having a great time. But during the trip, something interesting happened. My friend and I stopped talking and focused on listening to our wives speaking softly. My friend turned to me and said, "Hey, mate, I think they're talking about something important!" We spent the rest of the drive in complete silence, eager to hear what they were discussing. This experience made me realize that sometimes, being quiet and calm helps you communicate better than shouting! This lesson from everyday life also applies to training dogs. Our dogs respond better to calm and quiet energy than loud noises. If you really want your dog to listen, focus on the silence and the calm. LEARN HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR DOGS BETTER WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Why Silence Is Important in Making Dogs Listen to Us More Important note: I have to add here that when I say silence, I don’t mean you say zero words to your dog. It is being intentional with words, ensuring we keep what we say, and our energy, in check. So, why is silence important for dogs? In the wild, dogs are calmer and quieter. They are not used to hearing shouting. In fact, they only use their sound — like barking and howling — to communicate danger and to protect the pack. They use noise for the REAAAALLY important stuff. It’s a different story for our domesticated dogs. Every single day, they have to deal with different kinds of noise like: And what seems to be regular noise to us is already too much for our dogs. Too much that it makes dogs tune out and not hear what we are saying! And this overwhelm and tuning out makes it hard for dogs to understand your commands, which can make you wonder, “Does my dog even listen to me?” 5 Reasons Why a Dog Is Not Responding To You I always...

If you’re here because you’re wondering how to teach boundaries to dogs, I’m here to commend you! I know it’s tough. When our dogs start to show their puppy eyes, denying their requests becomes so hard. But there is power in SAYING NO. When dog owners say NO, it paves the way for better obedience training, and dogs that are calmer and easier to take care of. Additionally, dog owners who say NO are less likely to deal with aggressive, restless, stressed, and anxious dogs who don’t listen. “How is that possible, Dan? Can behavior problems really start because of not saying NO?” YES. Giving NO to your dog equals you showing your leadership and boundaries. And setting those two in place can make a BIG difference to your training and relationship with your dogs. Read on to learn how to teach boundaries to dogs and why NO is one of your most powerful dog training tools. Key Takeaways: SET BOUNDARIES WITH YOUR DOGS THE RIGHT WAY WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE™️ Table of Contents: Why Set Boundaries With Dogs? My Experience with Spoiled DogsHow to Teach Boundaries: The Power of NO in Dog PsychologyHow to Teach Dog Boundaries By Saying NOWhy No is an Expression of Love and a Powerful Way of Teaching Dogs BoundariesDog Calming Code: The Program That Will Help You Set Boundaries… With Love Why Set Boundaries With Dogs? My Experience with Spoiled Dogs Here’s what I’ve learned in my years of working with dogs: some of the hardest dogs to train are the ones that receive SO MUCH LOVE. Disclaimer: showering our dogs in love is not inherently bad. However, when great love comes with zero boundaries and no rules, it becomes a problem. Dogs who are constantly given EVERYTHING they demand become a big problem to the owners that adore them. I’ve seen this firsthand. Some would come up to me asking “Dan, we’ve given our dog everything! What could be the problem?” THE DOG CALMING CODE: THE ONLINE PROGRAM THAT HELP YOU RAISE BETTER BEHAVED DOGS What Saying “YES” to Every Request (AKA Spoiling Your Dog) Does To Them Here’s the problem: if your dog is acting up, not listening, and still charging around despite asking them to behave, you might check if you have a spoiled dog. Ask these questions… If you said YES to any of these questions, you could be dealing with a spoiled dog. Spoiled dogs are just like spoiled kids: they are defiant, they are hard to control, and it’s a challenge to get them to respect authority and boundaries. Some may say “Oh, they’re just acting up because that’s part of their personality.” But the bottomline is this: because your dog sees you respond to every bark, every request for treats, every nudge for snuggles, your dog feels they are in charge—they can get whatever they want, WHENEVER! Giving a YES can be tempting, but in the long run, letting dogs have everything they want can have serious consequences. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE HELP OF THE DOG CALMING CODE Consequence #1: Dogs In Charge Have Zero Downtime. They’re Constantly on High Alert Constantly saying YES to your dog’s demands has their mind going… “Aha! They said yes to my requests. They gave me treats when asked for some. I peed on the floor and I didn’t get a timeout! I barked and we walked! They gave me everything! Looks like I am the new leader here now.” You’ll see the signs once the leadership hat switches from your head to theirs—they’ll be more defiant, they’ll invade your space more demanding attention. Sleeping is also difficult for dogs who think they’re in charge. Even if they do lie down, they sleep lightly…making them even more anxious. Because all the time they’re tightly focused on ensuring the safety of you and the property. Their system is perpetually stressed from all the guarding and protecting, leaving them exhausted, worried and more prone to health issues. Consequence #2: They're the Leader, They Find No Reason to Listen to You Dogs are masterminds. Their seemingly safe, sweet cues can actually be their...

The best way to know how to walk a dog is to understand this crucial principle: In every walk, there’s a follower, and a leader. And most of the time, the leader is NOT you. “What do you mean, Dan? Are you saying that even if I hold the leash, I’m still not in control?” That’s right! Which explains why dogs tend to pull ahead of you on the leash, or become so uncontrollable during the walk — stopping to sniff wherever they want, lunging at other dogs — they think they’re the CEO of the walk, and you have to follow them. But here’s the thing: it’s SO HARD to know when you start to lose control and when your dog begins to take over. This shift in leadership can be very subtle, but really impactful. And the problem is so common, I see thousands of dog owners struggling with it everyday. For this reason, I created Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5 which aims to help dog owners tell their dogs “Hey, I know we’re not at home anymore but I’m still the leader here.” And when dog owners take charge of every walk, they enjoy a calmer, happier outing with their dogs. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: LEARN HOW TO WALK YOUR DOG THE RIGHT WAY WITH DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #5! Table of Contents: A Recap of The First Four Golden RulesRule #5: How to Walk Your Dog To Help Them See You’re In ChargeHow to Walk Your Dog: What Goes Wrong Before A WalkDog Psychology: How to Walk Your Dog the Better Way with Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5Structured Walk Vs. Social Walk4 Helpful Tips on How to Walk Your Dog From a Top Dog TrainerLearn How to Walk Your Dog the Right Way with Doggy Dan Rule #5! A Recap of The First Four Golden Rules I always remind dog owners who want to know how to walk dogs better that Golden Rule #5 works so much more when the first four rules have been put in place. If you haven’t checked them out yet, here’s a quick recap. Rule #1: Controlling the Food Your dog has to know that you have the ABSOLUTE control over food. You can find more about Rule #1 here. Rule #2: Delaying Acknowledgement After Separation If your dog jumps on you after separation, is that an expression of love or a challenge to your leadership? Rule #2 is about establishing your role as the pack leader through delaying acknowledgement after separation. Learn about Rule #2 here. Rule #3: Your Terms To become the reliable, trustworthy pack leader in your dog’s eyes, you and your dog MUST DO EVERYTHING in your terms. Check out Rule #3 here. Rule #4: Dealing with Danger Stop barking and aggression by showing your dog when it comes to danger, YOU’RE THE ONE IN CHARGE AND YOU’RE THE DECISION MAKER. Not them. Learn about the power of Rule #4 here. Rule #5: How to Walk Your Dog To Help Them See You’re In Charge Just like with the first four rules, the fifth rule in the Doggy Dan Five Golden Rules zeroes in on making sure YOU establish yourself as the leader by taking control of the walk. While the first four rules help you become the pack leader inside the house, the fifth rule communicates to dogs that you’re still the pack leader even if you are outside the property. It’s you who is in charge, so it’s you they should listen to, depend on to, and obey. Think about this: Ultimately, we want a calm dog who follows our directions, and does not come with a high-strung, protective energy during the entirety of our time outdoors. And for that to happen, our dogs should know that they are not in charge. They also don’t call the shots before and during the walk. The Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5 consists of three pillars that can help you take control of your walk.. Pillar #1: You Control the Walk, You Control the Energy Your dog has different energy levels. The higher the energy level, the more your dog will exhibit behavior that includes high-strung energy, aggressive lunging and pulling, and ignoring commands. Ideally, you would aim for an energy level of one or two (three max!) when going for a walk. And the way to retain this calm energy is to show that you’re in...