Paws-A-Tive Dog Training

08/31/2025

So so true!

08/24/2025

Ollie’s got so much potential! Sure, we’ve got our challenges (what teenager doesn’t?), but I’m excited to see where this journey takes us—and of course, I’ll bring you all along for the ride!

08/23/2025

I forgot to share these last week but looks like Luffy has settled in💕💕🐾

08/23/2025

⸻

Yes, yes, YES! 🙌
Socialization isn’t about forcing your puppy into experiences. It’s about offering safe opportunities, keeping them positive, and always giving your puppy the choice to opt out if they feel uncomfortable. 💛

"Socialization" refers to *positive* experiences with novel people, places, surfaces, sounds, sights, objects, touch/handling, and more.

If your dog isn't having a good time, and isn't able to voluntarily opt IN to participation, then you may be sensitizing your dog instead! Sensitization happens when a dog has neutral to negative experiences, or is forced into experiences that they don't have the skills to handle.

Puppies who receive socialization (like the Beagle on the right) gain confidence, resilience, and stability over time, and grow up to have fewer fear and aggression issues. Puppies who aren't given autonomy and choice in their interactions, or who are pushed into interactions that leave them feeling unsure or worried (like the Beagle on the left) are more likely to have anxiety or defensive issues as adults.

Remember to set your puppy up for success! Socialize smartly, and always pay attention to your puppy's body language to ensure she's having a good time.

More resources are in the comments!

08/13/2025

✨ Luffy is home! ✨ He and his new mom are already spending such sweet time together, bonding and learning all about each other. It’s clear this is a perfect match, and Luffy is living up to everything I knew he could be — the absolute best boy. 💛

08/13/2025

Luffy has landed!!! Report from flight nanny is he was great and slept the whole flight!!!Way to go Luffy!!!✈️❤️🐾❤️

08/12/2025

Look at this — they’re on the plane and ready to go! This sweet boy is stretched out at the flight nanny’s feet like a pro traveler. And just a reminder… Luffy just turned six months old yesterday! What an incredible pup. I couldn’t be more proud of him. 💛

08/12/2025

Alright, get ready for some Luffy Travels Home spam! ✈️
His amazing flight nanny is keeping me updated, and here’s the very first airport check-in. He’s already proving to be an absolute rock star—rode an elevator, hopped on a train with zero hesitation, and now he’s stretched out at her feet, calmly waiting to board. 💛🐾

08/12/2025

If you’ve ever wondered whether trainers cry when their long-stay board-and-train dogs head home… the answer is yes. 💛
Luffy is off to the airport and on his way to his mom. I know he’s destined for bigger and better things, but it still tugs at the heartstrings.

08/11/2025

Luffys’ AMAZING groomer Michelle ( Pet Salon) just stopped by to say good by to him. He loves her and was so happy to see her! When your dog loves its groomer you know you have found a great one!

08/11/2025

Luffy leaves us tomorrow, and my heart is feeling all the bittersweet. I’m so excited to watch him and his mom’s journey as he (fingers crossed!) grows into her service dog. But oh, I’m going to miss this sweet boy so much.

Today we went to a sniff spot, and the dogs had a blast climbing hay bales and exploring all the decorations. At one point, Luffy decided he was in the mood to work—so we did—and he nailed his down stays like a pro. I couldn’t have been prouder.

We also popped into the little shop connected to the training facility. Luffy was so polite—perfect sit stays, solid leave-its. At one point, my hands were full, so I dropped his leash and told him, “With me.” He stayed right by my side all the way to the counter, then held a perfect sit stay while I checked out.

He’s ready. Ready to go home. Ready to be the amazing partner I know he’ll be. Love you, Mr. Luffy. 💛

08/08/2025

Luffy spam incoming 🐾💛 103° means early adventure day! Post office ✅ Barnes & Noble ✅ and the car wash ✅ where he rocked the vacuums & rumbling machines—perfect airplane sound prep. This boy’s got a heart of gold and so much try ✨