Loose-Leash Walking
Benefit This exercise, also called “red light/green light,” teaches your dog that pulling on leash is not the way to get anywhere. The only way for him to make forward […]
Look Command
Benefit You can use an eye-contact command to get and keep your dog’s attention in situations that may be fear or anxiety provoking. It also inadvertently teaches your dog to […]
Leave It Command
Benefit When your dog can leave things on command, you can direct them not to pick up or even go near certain things—a very useful ability. For example, you can […]
Marking
What Is Urine Marking Marking is when a dog lifts their leg and sprays a small amount of urine onto a vertical surface. It’s a form of canine communication—not something […]
Nuisance Behaviors (Dogs)
What Are Nuisance Behaviors Nuisance behaviors are the things dogs do that drive us crazy: Raiding the garbage can Stealing things and running off Jumping up on people Charging through […]
Dog Nutrition
Dogs are meat-eaters by nature. However, they metabolize carbohydrates efficiently and can synthesize some required nutrients from eating plant matter. Dog food should contain a combination of ten essential amino […]
Name Recognition and Attention
Benefit Just like you would turn to look when someone says your name, dogs can learn to do the same. If your dog learns to pay attention to you when […]
No Backyard Dogs
Say no to backyard dogs. Dogs belong in the family home! What a Backyard Is Not For The backyard is NOT a living place for family dogs. People sometimes mistakenly […]
Puppy Play Biting and Mouthing
What’s with all the biting? The sheer amount of biting and mouthing your puppy subjects you and your clothing to can be shocking, even a little alarming. The good news, […]
Preventing Problem Behaviors (Video)
Watch this video to learn how to address problem behaviors and introduce your dog to new situations.
Puppy Chew Training
Chewing is a normal and important activity for puppies and adult dogs. Lifetime habits form early and puppies need guidance in learning what is theirs to chew and what is […]
Dog Trainer Referral List
List of recommended independent dog trainers in the Bay Area, updated periodically. Last updated December 9, 2025.