Wolffe Puppy Training

10/12/2025

Purina's "Service Dog Salute" Features
Prong Collars-A Conflict With PTSD
Trauma?

Before we dive into our concerns, we want to pause and sincerely commend Purina for the massive, positive influence they have on the pet world. We recognize and appreciate the enormous scale of their philanthropic efforts, from donating millions of pounds of food to rescues and shelters to the essential support they provide to various animal welfare organizations. Their commitment to pets overall is undeniable and should be celebrated.
However, this respect is why we must speak out after seeing Purina's "Service Dog Salute" campaign images featured on their Facebook ads and page. These images, intended to
honor service dogs, unfortunately highlight training methods that raise serious ethical concerns, especially for
partnerships where the human handler is living with PTSD.

To be absolutely clear: Our profound respect is with all veterans, and we place no fault on any handler receiving a service dog. Our concern is with the training organizations' methods and Purina's corporate endorsement of these tools.

In images shared by Purina themselves-like the one we've posted above featuring a veteran and her service dog-we clearly see service dogs outfitted with prong collars. We have to ask: Why would a major brand like Purina feature a service dog trained with an inherently aversive tool for a
handler whose primary struggle is often trauma? It goes against everything we believe about the human-animal bond, especially in a service dog team:
• Trust & Trauma: If a handler has PTSD, the dog's presence and actions are meant to be a source of calm and safety. Introducing fear-based correction via a prong collar compromises the dog's emotional state and, consequently, the reliability and trust in the relationship.

Is it Necessary? We fundamentally disagree that this type of aversive tool is necessary for service dog training. High-level precision and reliable task
performance can be achieved through positive reinforcement and clear, humane tools like a properly fitted martingale collar.

• It's About Training, Not Fear: A service dog should perform tasks because they understand their job and are happy to engage, not because they are relying on the avoidance of a physical correction.

We are seeking answers. Does anyone in the service dog or training community know why this particular training method is being highlighted/utilized in this context by a campaign
supported by Purina?
We hope the focus can shift to the thousands of ethical
trainers and organizations who prioritize force-free, positive
reinforcement methods for these life-changing partnerships.

We believe needs to
be aware of the community's strong concerns regarding the training methods featured in their campaign, and we hope for a public response and a re-evaluation of the messaging.

10/07/2025

Every dog owner knows this feeling! After crushing their training session, this little Cavalier went straight into Reward Mode. Swipe to see that instant switch from 'Crazy to Lazy.' So proud of this tiny champion! 👇

10/07/2025

Reward Mode Activated: Mission Accomplished! This tired puppy has the munchies after training.

From Crazy to Lazy. After a great training session out in the Aldie community, this little Cavalier is collapsing into their cozy-bed to claim the victory chew! A tired puppy is a trained puppy, and this little champion definitely earned this rest.

If you need help training your pup contact us!
🌎 www.wolffepuppytraining.com
📞 (973) 953-2404
📧 [email protected]

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09/21/2025

Is it ever okay to use a shock or prong collar? It's a heated debate in the dog training world, and one every Northern Virginia dog owner should consider.

Some trainers argue that these aversion-based tools are sometimes necessary, especially for certain breeds or behaviors. They believe that shock or prong collars provide clear, immediate communication that can help achieve reliable off-leash obedience, keeping a dog safe. They contend that when used correctly by a professional, these collars aren't cruel and are part of a "balanced" approach.

However, a growing number of professional organizations, veterinarians, and trainers, including myself, disagree. We believe that effective training should be built on trust and mutual respect, not fear or pain. Scientific evidence shows that positive reinforcement methods are more effective in the long term. These methods foster a deep bond and motivate a dog to learn because they want to please you, not because they are trying to avoid a painful consequence.

A critical question arises: What happens when the fear of a collar is outweighed by a powerful distraction, like a squirrel or a car? What happens when a dog's fear is redirected, leading to aggression? This isn't just about training; it's about the kind of relationship we want with our dogs. Is it a partnership built on mutual respect, or is it based on dominance and control?

At Wolffe Puppy Training, our position is clear: No Shock, No Prong, No Pain. We believe every dog deserves to learn in a safe, humane, and rewarding environment. Our goal is to empower you to build a confident, happy companion without resorting to fear.

What do you think? Have you used these collars, and what was your experience? Or do you believe in a force-free approach?

09/11/2025

Call Today For Your Free Phone Consultation!!
973-953-2404

Offering private,in-home customized training for puppies & dogs of all ages.

09/10/2025

Found a casualty of the puppy chewing phase? 👟
Whether it's your favorite shoe or the leg of the coffee table, don't despair! Chewing is a normal—though frustrating—part of puppyhood. They use their mouths to explore, teethe, and burn off bored energy.

The good news is you can save your belongings by focusing on two key areas:

🐾 Tired Paws (Physical Exercise): A tired puppy is a good puppy. Daily walks, a game of fetch, or safe playtime are essential to burn off that physical energy, leaving less for destructive chewing indoors.

🧠 Busy Brains (Mental Stimulation): This is the game-changer. Mental exercise is incredibly effective at tiring a puppy out. Short, fun training sessions and puzzle toys that make them think for their food are fantastic tools.

Pro Tip: Always have appropriate, durable chew toys available. Rotate them frequently to keep your puppy engaged with their toys, not your things.

If you're ready to guide your puppy's chewing instincts in the right direction, I can help. As an AKC certified, in-home private trainer right here in Loudoun County, I create custom plans that bring peace back to your home.

Let's turn those chewing woes into well-behaved wins.

Fostering Canine Good Behavior from Crazy to Lazy

Contact Wolffe Puppy Training Today!
📞 973-953-2404
📞 888-412-DOGS (3647)
🌐 www.wolffepuppytraining.com
✉️ [email protected]

09/09/2025

The single most important command you can teach your dog? A reliable RECALL. 🐾

It’s more than a command; it’s a life-saving connection built on joy and trust, not fear. This video shows the perfect foundation:

✅ A happy, inviting tone
✅ Immediate, joyful praise
✅ A safe, positive environment

This is how you create a dog that wants to race back to you, giving you peace of mind on all your Loudoun County adventures.

Pro Tip: Never call your dog TO you FOR something negative (like a bath or leaving the park). Go get them instead to protect the power of "come"!

Ready to build a recall you can trust? Let's connect. I'm an AKC certified professional trainer here to help Loudoun families build a better bond with their dogs.

🌎 www.wolffepuppytraining.com
📞 888-412-DOGS (3647)
📧 [email protected]

09/08/2025

With this beautiful weather, I know many of you are enjoying Loudoun County’s incredible trails and parks with your dogs. This is a perfect time to talk about a piece of equipment I see every day that poses a serious risk: the retractable leash.

While they seem convenient, these leashes are dangerous. Here’s why:
❌ Lack of Control: When a dog is 15-20 feet away, you have almost no ability to pull them back from a car, another dog, or a dangerous situation.
❌ Serious Injury Risk: The thin cord can cause severe burns, cuts, and even amputations to both humans and dogs who get tangled. They can also snap, causing the handle to fly back and injure you.
❌ Teaches Pulling: A retractable leash is always tense, which teaches your dog that pulling is how they move forward.

My professional advice: For maximum safety and control, please switch to a standard, fixed-length leash. A shorter leash is ideal, as it keeps your dog close and allows you to guide them securely in any environment.

Your dog’s safety is worth it.

If you need help training your pup contact us!
🌎 www.wolffepuppytraining.com
📞 (973)953-2404
📧 [email protected]

07/02/2025

Practical advice for keeping your pet safe during these hot summer months.

06/17/2025

We try to give practical advice and skills for you to to work on the 23 hours we are not there with you. We are happy to know we have made a difference in your family’s life. Thank you!

“We adopted a goldendoodle, Dyno, over the summer when he was 7 months old. Although he’s one of the sweetest dogs I’ve met, his previous family didn’t teach him how to walk well on a leash and he lacked some basic manners. Knowing that we were getting frustrated with the training process on our own, we decided to contact Scott and had four training sessions with him. He came to our home for the sessions to see our puppy in our environment - both inside and outside our home. He gave us practical advice and it has made a tremendous difference in Dyno. We still have some work to do, but we feel confident using the skills Scott gave us. We highly recommend using Scott! “ - Kelley F.

If you need help training your pup contact us!
🌎 www.wolffepuppytraining.com
📞 888-412-DOGS (3647)
📧 [email protected]

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05/20/2025

🐶🦠 Dog Owners, Beware of Ticks! 🦠🐶

Spring and summer mean more adventures with your pup — but also a higher risk of tick bites! 🏞️ Ticks can transmit serious diseases like Lyme, Ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. 🐾

Study the image👇 to see the Common Ticks of North America — from the tiny larvae to the fully engorged adult. Notice how different each species and stage looks!

Protect your furry friend by:
✅ Checking your dog after walks and hikes in the woods
✅ Using vet-recommended tick preventatives
✅ Avoiding tall grasses and wooded areas on your walk

🔍 Not sure what kind of tick you found on your pet (or yourself)?
📸 Snap a photo and text it to the Tick Safety Hotline for FREE Tick ID:
📲 (703) 828-4343

Stay tick-smart, stay safe! 💚

Need help with your pup’s training? We’re here for you!
🌐 www.wolffepuppytraining.com
📞 888-412-DOGS (3647)
📧 [email protected]

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04/21/2025

Some of us live with wildlife in our backyards; some of us don’t. But as we build more into wilderness areas to live, we encroach into wildlife’s backyard. We don’t see a lot of coyotes in our area but they are here. If you find yourself on a walk with your dog and encounter a coyote, keep your dog close and leashed if it isn’t already, and keep calmly walking away to ensure you and your pup stay safe if you do encounter one.

Has a coyote ever “followed” you or your dog on a walk?

If so, you might have felt afraid. Maybe you thought the coyote was stalking you or that an attack was imminent. But the truth is, you were likely being escorted!

Contrary to common belief, coyotes don’t typically stalk humans with the intent to harm. What you're seeing is often a natural behavior called escorting, where a coyote follows at a distance to make sure potential threats—especially dogs—leave their territory. This behavior is most common from early March through late April, when coyote parents are protecting dens and caring for vulnerable pups.

Escorting usually happens in the early morning or evening and is most often experienced by people walking dogs, as coyotes may view dogs as a threat to their young. Like any good parent, coyotes will look out for their families!

So, what should you do if a coyote starts escorting you?

First and foremost, don't panic! Coyotes are naturally afraid of people. In most cases, they want to avoid us, unless they've become habituated or feel threatened. Stay calm and keep walking at a steady pace. The coyote will typically stop once you’ve left their space.

If your dog isn't leashed, leash up immediately (which is good practice in wildlife areas) and keep your pup close. Most coyote conflicts happen in the presence of dogs, which they often see as competitors or intruders, so responsible pet guardianship is key to preventing problems.

🐾 On the rare chance the coyote gets too close, shout, wave your arms, and try to scare them off. This is called humane hazing. Learn how here: https://projectcoyote.org/hazing-field-guide

🐶 Explore our Dogs & Coyotes Fact Sheet: https://projectcoyote.org/dogs-and-coyotes-sheet

🐺 Want more tips on coyote behavior and coexistence? Check out our brochure: https://projectcoyote.org/coexisting-with-coyotes-brochure

As development encroaches on natural habitats, coexistence with wildlife like coyotes is more important than ever. Understanding their behavior and adjusting our own helps create safer communities for all species.