Mindful Mutts Dog Training

04/17/2025

04/15/2025

Yesterday we spoke about exercise. Today we want to focus on the second rule in the three part formula: discipline.

This is creating AND maintaining clear and consistent rules, boundaries, and limitations. Consequences for actions help to keep the peace, it aids in the prevention of unsavory choices, it ensures that not only your dog but also you do your best and play by the rules.

Behavior is controlled by consequences. Simple as that. Everyone assumes the word consequence is a "dirty word" but it can be used for both positives and negatives as the word consequence by definition is the result or effect of an action or condition. Let's think about it this way: if you drive the speed limit, don't run stop signs, and are ultimately a good driver then you may get some cash back for being a good driver. The consequence? A cash reward for being a good driver. Now let's flip the tables: if you go over the speed limit, run the stop sign, or swerve in the lanes then you are ultimately going to get pulled over and receive a ticket. The consequence? A hefty ticket and possibly suspended license. See the difference?

Most people want to make it more complicated than it really is but here's the thing: actions are always controlled by consequences. Period. We know that when we go above the speed limit we will receive that nasty and unsavory speeding ticket as a consequence for breaking the law. And for most people, this is considered a valuable consequence. This is the same for your dog. Once the rules, boundaries, and limitations are set in place and the dog has a understanding of what is and what is not expected of them through being taught by you, the owner, then it's up to consequences to ensure they're followed.




P.S. this is Matti. She boarded with us for the weekend. She was able to have a weekend vacay while her owner did the same.

04/08/2025

A great example of engagement building!

04/05/2025

Understanding Littermate Syndrome in Puppies

Bringing home two puppies from the same litter might seem like a great idea—they’ll have built-in companionship, right? However, many dog owners are unaware of the challenges that come with Littermate Syndrome, a behavioral condition that can develop when sibling puppies are raised together.

What is Littermate Syndrome?

Littermate Syndrome is a set of behavioral issues that arise when two puppies from the same litter (or even unrelated puppies of the same age) are raised together. These issues often stem from excessive bonding between the puppies, making it difficult for them to develop independence and proper social skills.

Signs of Littermate Syndrome:

Severe Separation Anxiety: Puppies become highly distressed when separated, making training and socialization more difficult.

Fearfulness: They may become overly reliant on each other, leading to increased anxiety in new situations or around unfamiliar dogs and people.

Difficulty in Training: Since they focus more on each other than their human, training sessions can become ineffective.

Inter-Puppy Aggression: As they grow, fights between littermates can become more intense, sometimes escalating into serious conflicts.

How to Prevent Littermate Syndrome

If you’re raising two puppies together, consider these steps to ensure they grow into well-adjusted, independent dogs:

Separate Training Sessions: Train each puppy individually to ensure they learn to focus on you rather than each other.

Encourage Independence: Allow them to spend time apart daily so they learn to be comfortable alone.

Socialization: Expose each puppy to different people, dogs, and environments separately.

Individual Bonding: Spend one-on-one time with each puppy to strengthen your personal relationship with them.

Should You Get Two Puppies?

While raising two puppies is possible, it requires significant effort and commitment. If you’re considering adopting littermates, be prepared to implement structured training and socialization strategies to prevent Littermate Syndrome.

By understanding and addressing Littermate Syndrome early, you can help your puppies grow into happy, confident, and independent dogs!

04/01/2025

I was delighted to receive this fantastic video of a client and their dog. They have done great work towards shaping the settle/place cue! We just introduced this skill a few days ago and the results of their diligent practice are obvious in the video.

We use a settle/place mat to help our dogs generalize the concept of settling in different environments. The mat will become an indicator that the dog will be hanging out in this location for a longer duration of time than just you're average stay. It is a great tool for introducing your dog to café or outdoor restaurant seating and goes a long way towards making your dog manageable and fun to bring with you on pet friendly outings.

Keep up the great work Amanda & Nyx!

03/08/2025

All painfully true!

02/10/2025

01/03/2025

New Year Special offer on Group Dog Training Classes at Pet Supplies Plus!

25% Off Group Classes when purchasing one of our full 6 week programs!

Pet Supplies Plus - Macon, GA

12/09/2024

A lot of training showcases flashy obedience and tricks. For our everyday companions, one of the most important skills isn't a focused heel or even a bomb proof stay. I would actually argue that it's "settling." The art of doing nothing.

This is very difficult for many dogs and also not something that owners always realize requires training. Having a dog who can relax in a variety of environments with various stimuli opens up so many avenues of enjoyment for the owner and pup.



Interested in improving your relationship with your dog and reaching your training goals?

Reach out to Mindful Mutts Dog Training.
Aishlyn Skoczylas - Owner / Lead Trainer
(478) 207-7996
[email protected]

11/06/2024

Take a look at our upcoming classes! Interested in registering? Contact us at [email protected] or call 478-207-7996.

Pet Supplies Plus - Macon, GA

11/06/2024

Mindful Mutts will be back in store!

After being on a brief hiatus due to personal reasons, we would be happy to meet you and your pup and discuss our training services! See the image below for the dates and times we are available.

Pet Supplies Plus - Macon, GA