Heather Law Dog Training

08/23/2025

☀️🐾 What a perfect day for a group meet-up!
Our pups (and their people 😉) had a blast practicing leash skills while hanging out with friends. We tackled distractions, built confidence, and enjoyed the sunshine together.

Big smiles, wagging tails, and lots of learning—what more could we ask for? 💛🐶

👉 Want your dog to join in the fun? Our next group class is starting soon—send me a message to grab your spot!

08/21/2025

Time to start making plans to attend to get your CPR training!
Oct 11,2025

08/20/2025

Blueberry was practicing Place yesterday and she loved it! Place is a great skill for our pups so they can wait away from the door and let people enter. We used her kibble since it was closer to dinner time.

08/06/2025

Shiloh and Boaz’s groomer in a hiring

We're hiring!

Call or text the salon @ 717.450.5165 for more info! Resumes and portfolio to [email protected]!

07/27/2025

Some of you maybe be wondering why things have been quiet. Well, I’ve been working on a few big projects for myself to only better serve all of you. With this new certification I have I have already started but I will continue to implement these skills to help you and your dog enjoy walks again!

Keep an eye out for some group things happening in the next month.

07/22/2025

Doggie is a special kind of dog! She loves just about anyone and any dog. When she loves you, you know by her ability to unzip your skin almost and get in. She is such a cool dog. Love you Doggie!!!

07/21/2025

Alfie was practicing his ‘gotcha your back’ for his dad the other day. Alfie was watching the other customer while giving dad the space he needs.

07/15/2025

What to Do When Your Dog Barks or Reacts on a Walk 🐾

Let’s talk about something that’s been circulating lately—and it needs to stop: clamping a dog’s mouth shut when they bark. That is NOT training. That is abuse.

Imagine someone putting duct tape over your mouth just because you said you were uncomfortable. That’s what it’s like for a dog.

Dogs have limited ways to communicate:
👉 Their voice (a bark, growl, or grumble)
👉 Their body language
👉 Their teeth (and no, we don’t want it to get that far)

If you’ve worked with me—or even followed my content—you’ve heard this before:
Honor the growl.

A dog’s growl is them saying:
➡️ “I’m uncomfortable.”
➡️ “Please give me space.”
It’s a warning, not a threat. When we ignore it, when we punish it, we force dogs to escalate. That’s when bites happen. Not out of nowhere—but out of being ignored.

Instead of silencing our dogs, let’s teach them how to communicate better.
✔️ I work on teaching dogs how to “whisper” instead of shout
✔️ We can shape “one or two barks” instead of constant barking
✔️ We look at why the behavior is happening—then meet that need

But I’ll be clear:
Never, ever hold a dog’s mouth shut. Never blow in their face.
That’s not just outdated—it’s inhumane. If you see a trainer doing that, run.

Also remember: not all dogs are bouncy and wiggly. A calm dog isn’t necessarily fearful—they might just be a chill personality. Respect their body language and don’t assume quiet means OK.

And as for those teeth? If a dog has to resort to biting, it’s because we’ve ignored everything else they tried to say.

Honor the bark. Respect the growl. Watch the body. Let’s help our dogs feel safe, not silenced.

—Enjoy my TED talk 🐶💬

07/07/2025

Praying for everyone involved in the flooding. There was also flooding in NC overnight praying for everyone there as well.

07/04/2025

Have a Happy 4th of July and remember your dog doesn’t want to go see fireworks they want to be safe at home. Please keep your pups safe at home.

07/01/2025

🎆🐾 Fourth of July Tips for a Happier, Safer Dog 🐾🎆

The Fourth of July can be overwhelming for our pups — loud noises, unfamiliar guests, and late-night chaos. Here’s how to make the day less stressful and more enjoyable for your four-legged friend:

1️⃣ ID, Always!
Make sure your dog is wearing proper identification. If you don’t have a tag, grab some duct tape and wrap it around their collar (not on their fur!) and write their name, your name, phone number, and address. Quick and effective in case they panic and bolt.

2️⃣ Get Moving Early!
Plan walks, playtime, or even a short training session early in the day before the festivities kick off. A little mental and physical stimulation goes a long way.

3️⃣ Prep Some Enrichment!
Have boredom busters ready:
🧊 Frozen Kongs
🧩 Puzzle toys
⚽ Treat-dispensing balls
🍓 Frozen bowls with fruit, veggies, or kibble
These help your pup stay busy and feel secure while things boom outside.

4️⃣ Fireworks Are a Hard No.
Please, don’t bring your dog to fireworks. Even the best-trained dogs can get startled and run. Beyond that, fireworks can create lasting fear and negative associations — with people, kids, cars, even thunderstorms. It’s not worth the risk.

💡 Keep the night low-key. Let your dog relax somewhere safe and comfortable. A quiet room, calming music, and their favorite toys can make a world of difference.

Let’s keep tails wagging and everyone safe this holiday! ❤️🐶🇺🇸