Smart Paws

Excellent article! Touches on crucial socialization period in puppies (8-20 weeks), enrichment (think food puzzles), positive science-based training (clicker training). Pass it along

Don’t underestimate how much mental stimulation your pups need (and it tires them out too ). Little Bacchus is working for his food with this food puzzle it developed his nose, his brain, and his coordination. Plus it’s fun to watch how into it he is! Day 2 with the food toy.

Happy Boxing Day! Luna loves finding things in boxes she’s been enjoying sniffing out treats in boxes since she was a pup. This year we put her Xmas gift in a box with a few treats... short, cute video

I pups from rescues! Time and time again I see their enthusiasm for training. It’s like they are thinking Finally! I’ve met a human that’s clear on what they want me to do! To me this is the true strength of clicker training... cuz I don’t speak dog & dog doesn’t speak my language. Here’s my latest heartthrob Duke I tried to get a pic when he was smiling (which was a lot!) but he kept wanting to train (or jump - lol! We’re going to work in that.). His new owner is picking things up fast too! Great things ahead for this team.

Turning fun into training! My 8-year old pup Luna LOVES chasing the fall leaves. Here we are playing and training... practicing impulse control (calm moments), go around, and wait. Chasing and catching the leaves is WAY more reinforcing to her than food at this moment

Yesterday, while walking our dog, my 17-year old daughter told me she saw an woman hitting her golden retriever with the leash, then her hand. The dog did not want to go with her, then laid down on the sidewalk. My daughter yelled across the street to this woman telling her not to hit her dog. The woman then pulled the dog and ran away. (No wonder the dog didn’t want to go with her ). Bullying/abuse is wrong. A sad, but proud moment as a mom. I’m glad my girl had the strength to say something.