Pawsitive Connection Dog Training

09/11/2025

Food rewards are a powerful tool in dog training, but relying on them too heavily, especially for place work, can create unintended consequences if you don’t phase them out strategically.

The goal of place training isn’t to turn your dog into a treat-chasing performer. It’s about teaching them to relax, settle, and observe their surroundings calmly without needing a constant stream of snacks, bones, or toys.

Here’s the neuroscience behind it: dogs, like us, have dopamine-driven brains that thrive on anticipation and reward. If you consistently lure your dog back to their place with food every time they wander off, you’re not teaching obedience—you’re creating a behavior loop. They learn: “Leave place, get treat, repeat.” That’s not defiance; it’s your dog mastering the reward cycle you’ve built.

Once your dog understands the “place” command, shift away from the treat buffet. Gently guide them to their spot, wait, and let them relax. This helps their nervous system switch from “seek and act” to “rest and relax,” tapping into their parasympathetic system—the same mechanism that helps you unwind after a tough day.

Bones and chews can also create dependency. If you always give your dog a bone to stay on place while you’re chilling outside, they may start to think, “I can only relax here with something to chew.” It’s like needing a phone to sit quietly at a café—functional, but not exactly Zen.

Place training is about teaching your dog to simply exist. No treats, no toys, no constant stimulation—just being present in the moment.
So, when you practice, embrace a minimalist mindset. Treats are useful early on, but real life doesn’t always come with a snack dispenser. Help your dog learn that the world itself is engaging enough.

Make sure to follow us for updates and more training tips. Contact us today if you would like to sign up for classes. Visit our website for more information.

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09/09/2025

Vaccinating dogs is a crucial responsibility for pet owners, especially for those with puppies. Ensuring that your dog receives the proper vaccinations through a qualified veterinarian not only protects their health but also the health of other animals and humans around them.

Puppies undergo a critical phase in their early development where their immune systems are still immature. During this period, they need a series of vaccinations, typically starting around six to eight weeks of age. These vaccines help to build their immunity against serious diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, and rabies. Each vaccination is spaced appropriately to enhance their protective responses, making it vital that owners adhere to the schedule provided by their veterinarian.

The importance of vaccinations extends beyond immediate protection; they play a significant role in preventing outbreaks of preventable diseases within communities. When a sufficient number of pets are vaccinated, it creates herd immunity, minimizing the risk of spreading infections. This is particularly vital in the case of diseases that can easily be transmitted in areas where dogs are socialized, such as parks or doggy daycare facilities.

Moreover, proper vaccinations can prevent costly medical treatments and emergency care associated with these diseases, which can often be severe and sometimes fatal. Additionally, many boarding facilities, groomers, and dog training facilities, making immunization essential for a full and active dog life.

Ultimately, regular check-ups and vaccinations at the vet are not just about compliance; they are an essential investment in your dog’s long-term health and well-being.

09/08/2025

Why Isn't My Dog Coming to Me When Called?

Having a reliable recall is one of the most important commands you can teach your dog. However, many owners face the frustration of their dog not coming when called, despite seemingly knowing the command. There are several common reasons for this issue, and understanding them can help you improve your training approach.

No Punishment When They Come
Punishing your dog when they finally respond to the recall can undermine the behavior. For example, if your dog is punished after coming to you because they previously killed a neighbor’s cat, they learn that coming to you is associated with negative consequences. This creates a zero incentive for your dog to return to you in the future. Positive reinforcement is key—reward your dog when they come, regardless of the situation.

Lack of Control During Training
Practicing recall without proper control can be ineffective. Exercising off-leash or in uncontrolled environments can make it easy for your dog to ignore commands. It's essential to have a leash or long line to gently guide and control your dog during training, especially as they become more reliable in their responses.

Practicing in Low-Distraction Environments
Training in your house, backyard, or group class doesn’t fully prepare your dog for real-world situations. To truly ensure your dog responds in the field, practice in places filled with distractions—parks, streets, areas with other animals, people, or tempting sights and sounds. Teaching your dog to prioritize the recall despite distractions is crucial for safety and reliability.

Reinforcing for the Wrong Reasons
Dogs often find other stimuli more rewarding than treats or praise. If your dog is not responding, it could be because they’re more interested in chasing a squirrel or greeting another dog. In emergencies, you may need to pop the end of the leash and firmly guide your dog to complete the command. Quick and firm responses are vital when your dog may run into danger, such as traffic or other hazards.

Delayed Praise
Timing matters. When your dog starts to come to you, that’s the critical moment—this is when they need your most enthusiastic praise and reward. Waiting until they reach you means missing the opportunity to reinforce the behavior positively, which reduces motivation over time.

Not Practicing Enough
Recall is a complex skill that requires countless repetitions in various scenarios. Consistent daily practice is essential. For example, our board-and-train dogs perform 30 to 50 recall repetitions every day, ensuring they respond reliably in any situation. Giving your dog ample opportunities to learn and practice recall in as many circumstances as possible will result in a more dependable response.

In summary, building a solid recall requires patience, consistency, positive reinforcement, and practicing in real-world environments. By avoiding these common pitfalls and dedicating regular, varied training—mentally and physically—you will see significant improvements in your dog’s responsiveness and trust.

09/02/2025

🐾 Calling all dog lovers! 🐶 Are you ready to unleash your pup’s potential? Join our exciting Dog Training Group Classes starting soon! 🗓️

Whether you’re a new puppy parent or looking to refine your companion’s skills, our classes cater to all ages and breeds. Our experienced trainers use positive reinforcement techniques to ensure a fun and engaging environment. 🥳 Watch your pup transform from shy to confident as they learn essential commands, socialization skills, and proper leash manners!

Don’t miss this opportunity to bond with your dog while making new furry friends! 🐕💞 These group classes encourage interaction, making training a joyful community experience. Plus, it's a perfect chance for you to connect with other dog owners and share tips and tricks.

Spaces are limited, so sign up today to secure your spot! 📩 Whether you’re looking to teach your dog basic obedience or advanced tricks, our group classes provide the support and motivation you need.

Let’s embark on this rewarding journey together— your dog will thank you! 🐾✨ For more information and to register, visit our website or contact us directly. See you soon in class! 🎉

08/27/2025

🐾 Exciting News! Join Our Dog Training Group Classes 🐾

Spend 6 weeks building the foundation for a well-behaved pup with our beginner obedience, skills, and foundation classes! The next session starts Wednesday, September 10th at 6 PM.

🌟 Class Details:
Duration: 6 weeks, meeting once a week
Cost: $180
Limited spots available – sign up now!

This class focuses on essential obedience skills such as loose leash walking, sit, down, place, meet and greets, stay, and come. It’s perfect for new dog owners or those looking to reinforce good habits!

All dogs must be current on vaccines and provide records from your veterinarian. Additionally, a negative f***l report within the last 6 months is required.

For more information or to reserve your spot, please email us at [email protected] or visit our website at www.pcdtlv.com.

Give your furry friend the skills they need to be confident and well-behaved! 🐶✨

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08/19/2025

🐾 Join Our Dog Training Group Classes This Fall! 🍂

As the weather cools down, we’re excited to bring our dog training classes outdoors and around town! Our group classes offer the perfect opportunity for you and your furry friend to learn and have fun together. Whether your pup is just starting out or ready to tackle advanced obedience, we have something for everyone.

🌟 Benefits of Our Group Classes:
- Socialization: Your dog will interact with other dogs and people, helping them develop confidence and proper social skills in a controlled environment.
- Real-World Distractions: Training outside means your dog learns to focus in a variety of settings, enhancing their ability to obey commands amidst distractions.
- Supportive Community: Connect with other dog owners who share your passion for training and enjoy the camaraderie of learning together.
- Expert Instruction: Benefit from professional trainers who can guide you and your dog through each stage, from basic obedience to advanced techniques.

Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity! Contact us today to kickstart your training journey and spend quality time with your canine companion! 🐶❤️

08/17/2025

Enhance Your Dog's Skills with Private Training Lessons

Are you looking to improve your dog's behavior and obedience in a personalized setting? Our private dog training lessons are an excellent choice for pet owners who want tailored instruction and focused attention. We offer flexible lesson packages—2, 5, and 8 lessons—designed to meet your unique needs and schedule.

In our private sessions, we cover essential skills that every dog should possess, including basic obedience and manners. Your furry friend will learn vital commands such as “sit,” “down,” “come,” “heel,” “place,” “stay,” “leave it,” and “auto-sit.” Each lesson is structured to promote a positive learning environment and encourages effective communication between you and your dog.

Why choose private lessons? One-on-one training allows our skilled trainers to concentrate on your dog’s specific challenges and progress at their pace. Whether you’re dealing with a puppy or a more mature dog, our private lessons provide a calm, distraction-free setting where your dog can thrive.

The benefits of our training extend beyond the individual sessions. Upon completing your package, you can continue your journey with our group classes, which help reinforce your dog’s obedience skills in a social setting. This transition not only helps solidify their training but also exposes them to new distractions and experiences, ensuring they remain well-mannered in various environments.

Each lesson is crafted to be engaging and enjoyable for both you and your dog. We focus on positive reinforcement techniques that will make your training experience fun and effective.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a better-behaved companion, sign up for our private lessons today! Discover the joy of training and the satisfaction of watching your dog grow and learn with our expert guidance. Your journey to a well-mannered dog begins now! 🐕✨

08/17/2025

Rally Obedience: Fun and Engaging Training for You and Your Dog

As the summer months heat up and outdoor activities become less enjoyable, it’s essential to keep your dog mentally stimulated and engaged. Rally obedience is a fantastic option that combines fun, excitement, and competition, making it a perfect training activity even during unbearable temperatures outside!

Rally obedience is an interactive sport that involves teamwork between you and your dog. The class is designed for all skill levels, offering several levels of training from beginner to advanced. Dogs love participating in rally obedience as it encourages problem-solving and strengthens the bond with their handler.

What sets our classes apart is the lively atmosphere! Our sessions are fun and engaging, ensuring both you and your furry friend enjoy every moment. In addition to honing essential obedience skills, your dog will get a great mental workout that can help alleviate summer boredom.

Here are some popular exercises featured in rally obedience training:
1. Call Front: Your dog moves from a distance to sit in front of you.
2. Finish Left or Right: After the call front, your dog moves around you to either your left or right to sit at your side.
3. Right Turn: A simple turn to the right while walking with your dog.
4. Left Turn: Similar to the right turn, but to the left, promoting smooth navigation.
5. Straight Sit: Your dog must sit as you walk around it, emphasizing control and focus.
6. Jump: An agility exercise where your dog must jump over a low hurdle, enhancing confidence and coordination.
7. Zigzag Weave: This exercise improves your dog’s ability to follow your movements while weaving through cones.

Rally obedience not only provides a structured environment for training but also allows your dog to socialize with other dogs in an exciting setting. Don’t let the heat hold you back—sign up for our next class and discover how rally obedience can benefit both you and your dog!

Join us for an exhilarating experience that will keep your dog mentally sharp and physically active all summer long! 🐾🌟

08/15/2025

🐾✨ Ready to enhance your life with a service dog? Training is the key! At PCDT, we specialize in transforming dogs into amazing service companions that provide support and independence. 🐕❤️

🌟 Our training program covers:
- Customizable training plans to meet your needs
- Professional trainers with years of experience
- Positive reinforcement techniques for effective learning

💼 Whether it's for mobility support, hearing assistance, or psychiatric needs, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Dive into the world of service dogs and discover how they can change your life!

📅 Schedule a consultation today and unlock the potential of your furry friend! Visit us at PCDT Service Dog Training (https://www.pcdtlv.com/service-dog-training) for more information.

A Service Dog Helps a Person with a Disability Lead a More Independent Life… Tailored Service Dog Training to Meet Your NeedsNo previous training required. We'll walk you through every step, from fundamental obedience to specialized task training.Service Dog Training ProgramOur service dog trainin...

08/15/2025

Vaccination Requirements for Dogs- The safety and health of the furry family members in our care are our top priorities. To ensure a safe environment for all dogs at our facility, we maintain a strict, no-exception vaccination policy for every dog receiving any service. Below, we outline our vaccination requirements and the importance of compliance.

Why Vaccinations Are Essential - Vaccinations protect dogs from serious and potentially deadly diseases while safeguarding the well-being of all pets in our care. Our policy reflects years of commitment to maintaining a healthy environment, and we appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these standards.

Required Vaccinations - Every dog entering our facility for any service must have current, veterinarian-administered vaccination certificates for the following:

Rabies: Protects against a fatal viral disease transmissible to other animals and humans.

Distemper (DHLPP/DA2PP): Guards against multiple serious diseases, including distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus.

Bordetella: Prevents kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory condition common in group settings.

Negative F***l Exam: Confirms the absence of intestinal parasites that could spread to other dogs. We will need a copy of the report.

Certificate Requirements - To streamline the process, please ensure your veterinarian includes the expiration date for each vaccine on the certificate, as validity periods may vary. Self-administered vaccinations are not accepted. All vaccinations must be administered and verified by a licensed veterinarian to ensure efficacy and compliance with our standards.

Our Commitment to Your Pet’s Safety - We understand that some pet owners may find these requirements strict, but they are in place to protect every dog in our care. By maintaining this no-exception policy, we minimize health risks and ensure a safe, welcoming environment for your furry family members.

For questions or to verify your dog’s vaccination status, please contact us or consult your veterinarian. Thank you for partnering with us to prioritize the health and safety of our canine community.

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08/13/2025

🎉 Exciting News for Dog Lovers! 🎉 Our Advanced Obedience clients are diving into an awesome Rally course, and we’re thrilled to see their progress! 🐾

Dog training isn’t just about commands—it’s about building a stronger bond with your furry friend, boosting their confidence, and ensuring they’re well-behaved in any situation. Here’s why training with us is a game-changer:

Benefits & Advantages of Training:
🐶 Improved Behavior: A well-trained dog is happier, less stressed, and a joy to be around.
🧠 Mental Stimulation: Keeps your dog sharp and engaged, preventing boredom-related mischief.
🤝 Stronger Bond: Training fosters trust and communication between you and your pup.
🛡️ Safety: A dog that listens can avoid dangerous situations, like running into traffic.
🌟 Social Skills: Helps your dog interact politely with people and other pets.

Skills We’re Working On in Rally:
Precision heeling for focused attention
Quick sits, downs, and stands on cue
Navigating fun obstacles with confidence
Responding to advanced commands in distracting environments
Mastering directional cues for seamless teamwork

Real-World Applications:
🏞️ Stress-free walks in busy parks or crowded streets
🏠 Polite greetings when guests visit your home
🐕 Confidence in new environments, like vet visits or pet-friendly businesses
🚗 Safe and calm behavior during car rides or public outings
🏆 Preparation for dog sports or competitions like Rally Obedience, Agility, Nosework, Barn Hunt, Dock Diving, Trick Training and more

Training is a lifelong journey, and we’re here to keep the learning fun and engaging! From our Rally course to other activities, we offer plenty of ways to grow with your dog. Interested in joining? We provide private lessons, group classes, and our popular board and train program tailored to your dog’s needs.

📩 Contact us today for more info on how to get started! Let’s make training a rewarding adventure for you and your pup. 🐾

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08/07/2025

Training Multiple Dogs in the Household: Tips and Tricks for Success

Training multiple dogs at home can be a rewarding experience, but it also presents unique challenges, especially for those new to dog training. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can help all your dogs thrive and develop good manners. Using balanced training methods that incorporate treats, praise, and toys as rewards will give you the best results while keeping training fun and positive. Here are some tips and exercises to help you successfully train your dogs both individually and together.

First, focus on training each dog separately before bringing everyone together. One-on-one sessions allow you to give each dog undivided attention, making it easier for them to learn commands and behaviors without distractions. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leave it. Use treats and praise to reinforce desired behaviors, and be patient—every dog learns at their own pace. Keep training sessions short, around 5-10 minutes, to prevent frustration and help your dogs stay engaged.

Once your dogs are comfortable with individual commands, you can begin practicing with all of them together. This step is crucial for teaching your dogs to listen amidst distractions and to behave politely around each other. Begin with controlled environments, such as a quiet backyard, and practice commands like “sit” and “stay” with multiple dogs. Use treats and toys to motivate your dogs and reward calm, attentive behavior. Make sure to praise all dogs who succeed, and use high-value rewards for the dog that performs the command. Over time, gradually increase the level of difficulty by adding more distractions or practicing in different environments.

Here are some additional tips for training multiple dogs effectively:

✅Consistent Commands: Use the same words and signals for commands across all dogs to avoid confusion.
✅Fair Rewards: Reward each dog fairly to prevent jealousy. For example, praise one dog at a time when they perform well, then reward all of them together at the end of a successful session.
✅Controlled Environment: Manage your dogs’ environment to prevent counterproductive behaviors. Use leashes or long lines during training to keep control.
✅Separate Exercise Time: Incorporate individual play and exercise sessions to meet each dog’s unique needs and prevent competition or jealousy.
✅Socialization and Play: Provide supervised playtime where dogs can interact positively, but always monitor to prevent conflicts.

Remember, patience and consistency are key. Training multiple dogs is a gradual process that requires time and dedication, but the result is a harmonious household with well-behaved pups who listen and respond. Keep sessions positive, use balanced techniques, and celebrate each small success to build a strong foundation for lifelong good manners. With these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to creating a well-trained, happy multi-dog family.