Underdog Academy

11/01/2026

Candy bowls are everywhere this weekend. Here's what to keep away from your dog: 🍬

• Chocolate, especially dark and baking chocolate
• Anything sugar-free with xylitol (gum, mints, some candies). Even a small amount can be dangerous.
• Raisins and chocolate-covered raisins
• Wrappers, lollipop sticks and foil, which can cause blockages

Keep the stash up high, do a quick floor sweep after the kids go through their haul, and call your vet right away if you think your dog ate something.

10/31/2026

Tonight the doorbell might ring 50 times. Here's how to help your dog stay calm. 🎃

• Get a long walk or play session in before dark so they're tired, not wired
• Set up a quiet room away from the front door with a bed, water and a long-lasting chew
• Turn on a TV, music or a fan to muffle the knocks and the doorbell
• Think about sitting outside with the candy bowl so nobody has to ring at all
• When your dog stays calm, reward it quietly. Don't make a big deal of it.

If the doorbell is stressful for you and your pup all year, not just tonight, that's something we help families with long term. We're always happy to chat: training.underdoginstitute.com

10/30/2026

Tomorrow's forecast: 100% chance of doorbells. 🔔🎃

If your dog barks at every knock, try this tomorrow night:
• Set them up in a quiet room or crate with a chew before trick-or-treaters start
• Or sit on the porch with the candy so no one has to ring
• Keep the front door secured; lots of dogs slip out on Halloween

Calm beats chaos. Happy Halloween from Underdog Academy!

10/29/2026

Free Evaluation Day - Real Progress. Real Answers. Zero Obligation.

Bring your dog to Underdog Academy in Algonquin and see what they can do with the right plan. We'll show you real progress and give you honest answers about where your dog is and where they can go. Bring the whole family; everyone who lives with the dog should see it.

🏆 2x Top Dog Trainer Award Winner
📰 Featured in the Northwest Herald
🐾 750+ families trained
♾️ Lifetime Support

Book at training.underdoginstitute.com or call (224) 253-6335.

10/28/2026

A unicorn, a chicken and a lion walk into a training room… and all three hold their place. 🦄🐔🦁

Costumes, doorbells, strangers on the porch: Halloween is a lot for a dog. Quick tip for this week: let your dog see and sniff any costume a few times before the big night, with calm praise each time. Small doses now make Halloween night much easier.

Want a dog who can handle the holidays? Book a free evaluation at training.underdoginstitute.com or call (224) 253-6335.

02/16/2025

❄️🐶 Snow much fun or too cold to handle? 🐶❄️

Did you know that some dogs love the snow, while others would rather stay curled up inside? 🏡☕️

🐾 Snow-loving breeds like Huskies, Malamutes, and Newfoundlands thrive in the cold thanks to their thick coats. They’ll roll, jump, and zoom through the snow like it’s their natural playground!

🥶 Cold-sensitive breeds like Chihuahuas, Greyhounds, and Boxers have short coats and can get chilly fast. If your pup is shivering, lifting their paws, or hesitating to go outside, they might need a cozy jacket or shorter outdoor time!

🔥 Underdog Academy Tip: No matter the breed, always dry off your dog’s paws after playing in the snow to prevent cracked pads and salt irritation. And if they’re having too much fun ignoring the “come inside” command, that’s where training comes in! 😉

Drop a photo of your dog enjoying (or avoiding) the snow in the comments! 📸🐕❄️

02/09/2025

This is little Miss Venus and her Mother Chunketta, who are currently being fostered with our friends Mario and Kelly working with Hoof, Woof and Meow rescue. Who can help this adorable mother and daughter find a home?

02/07/2025

A Unicorn, Chicken and Lion walk into the academy….

At Underdog Academy, we specialize in transforming dogs into well-mannered, obedient companions through expert training and personalized care. With over a decade of experience in the dog industry, we are dedicated to helping both dogs and their owners ach

02/06/2025

🐶 Is Your Dog Eating the Right Diet? 🥩🥦

Just like us, dogs thrive on a balanced, nutritious diet! A proper diet can impact their energy levels, coat health, digestion, and even behavior. Here are some key things to keep in mind when feeding your pup:

✅ High-Quality Protein – Supports muscle growth and overall health. Look for real meat as the first ingredient!
🥦 Fresh Fruits & Veggies – Great for digestion and packed with vitamins! (Carrots, blueberries, and spinach are fantastic options.)
🦴 Healthy Fats – Essential for a shiny coat and brain health. Omega-3s from fish oil or flaxseed can do wonders!
🚫 Avoid Fillers & Artificial Additives – Many cheap dog foods are loaded with corn, soy, and artificial preservatives that can cause allergies and digestive issues.
💧 Hydration is Key – Always ensure your pup has fresh water available!

At Underdog Academy, we believe a well-fed dog is a well-behaved dog! Nutrition plays a HUGE role in training, focus, and overall happiness. Need help fine-tuning your dog’s diet? We’re here to help! 🐕💪

📸 Drop a pic of your pup in the comments and let us know their favorite healthy snack! ⬇️🐾

02/01/2025

Why Do Dogs Bark? Understanding Your Pup’s Voice

Barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate, but excessive barking can be frustrating for owners. Here are some common reasons why dogs bark:

🔹 Alert/Warning – Dogs have an instinct to protect their territory and loved ones. They may bark when they hear unfamiliar sounds or see strangers.
🔹 Attention-Seeking – Some dogs bark to get your attention, whether they want food, playtime, or a walk.
🔹 Boredom or Loneliness – If a dog is left alone too long or lacks mental stimulation, barking can become a way to entertain themselves.
🔹 Fear or Anxiety – Loud noises, new environments, or separation anxiety can cause nervous barking.
🔹 Excitement – Some dogs can’t contain their joy when seeing their favorite people or other dogs.

At Underdog Academy, we help dogs learn when barking is appropriate and how to communicate in a calmer way. If your dog struggles with excessive barking, we can help! 🐶🔇

What’s the funniest or weirdest thing your dog barks at? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️