Tried and True Canines

04/13/2026

04/07/2026

There are many reasons a dog may struggle with engagement on walks—they’re anxious, overstimulated, have pent up energy, are uncomfortable with their gear, and so on.

One of the ones that seems to often get overlooked with pet parents is the treat that they’re trying to use. Is it *actually* as valuable to your dog as you think it is??

I’ve had this conversation many times with owners. The exercises I give them work great in the house, but they don’t work on walks. Then I ask what treat they’re using: “Kibble!”, “Zuke’s!”, or whatever packaged treat brand they happen to have.

Sure, your dog may work well for these things in the house, but the house is easy. No distractions, no exciting smells, just same old same old. The value of your reinforcer needs to match the difficulty of the environment you’re in. Walks are full of distractions, excitement, and smells, so up the value of the reinforcer needs to match that! Chicken, cheese, freeze-dried treats, hot dog. Find the food that your dog *actually* cares about, and you may find yourself walking a different dog!

04/02/2026

Pet stores can be a good place to challenge your dog and put their skills to the test! Nim got lots of practice with polite greetings, leaving treats and chews, coming when called while ignoring the aisle full of food, and lots more!

03/30/2026

Special shoutout to this new student!! If she looks a bit like another puppy you’ve seen here, you’d be correct!

Ruby is a 4-month-old Icelandic Sheepdog from the same breeder as Cashew. She has some big feelings about seeing other dogs on walks (“why can’t I just say hi to everyone??”), and is also working on all her basic life skills!

03/27/2026

Meet a few of our newest students!🐶📚

02/14/2026

Will you be Charlie’s Valentine?❤️🌹