Train Smarter, Not Harder: 6 Tips for Effective Dog Training
Training your dog doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s all about clear communication, consistent rewards, and understanding your pup’s needs. In this post, we’ll share six tips to help you build better behaviors, from rewarding quickly and often to using high-value...
My Groomer Saved My Dog
My old girl is turning 12 in August. She gets around, but arthritis in her paws makes cutting her nails with traditional clippers very uncomfortable. Hannah Manesreh, with Lucky Dog Canine Grooming, gently takes care of Strega's paws in a manner that I can not. I...
Firework Safety Tips for Dogs
July 4th is fast approaching—and for many dogs, it’s one of the most stressful days of the year. Every year, dogs get spooked and lost on the Fourth of July. Fireworks, loud noises, and unfamiliar smells can leave even the calmest pup feeling anxious and scared. To...
Hiking with Dogs: 7 Essential Safety Tips for Trail-Ready Pups
Hiking season is upon us! We're all coming out of hibernation to enjoy the paved and off road trails all around the region. For many of our dogs, it's a time to get out and explore with their owners. Keep in mind they've been cooped up, like us, all winter long and...
Rainy Day Games
"EEGADS it's raining!! We can't go outside we may DIE" - Strega & Henry That seems to be the tone for all dogs this morning. So I wanted to share with you some things we do in our home to manage the cabin fever on really rainy days. For potty walks, grab that...
Happy Groomer/Vet visits!
Save the date and join Shanthi to learn about simple techniques you can do at home to make vet and groomer visits easier for you and the provider! Registration required for this free event When: April 1st, 2017 10:00am-11:30 Where: Mount Sequoyah Retreat, Martin...
A thinking dog?
Yesterday I had the joy of watching a dog THINK her way through a situation to get what she wanted. Sweet Ziva, a 12-month old doodle, is a wonderful family pet. She behaves beautifully on leash and the family loves nearly everything about her. "Nearly" everything....
Foundation Skills for Dog Training
At NWA School for Dogs, we consider the foundation skills of dog training to be those skills required for you and your dog to have a harmonious and happy life together. These aren't just tricks - they're the building blocks of communication, safety, and mutual...
The “Train Happy” Philosophy
Dogs are emotional just like people. We've all seen it. One dog will be happy, confident and outgoing while another is reserved and almost fearful. As a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA-CTP) I have the skills to train the dog in a manner that they...
Puppy Training Tips
Over the last 20 years of training and raising dogs, I've come up with the following top tips for how to help you and your puppy transition to a life of harmony. Have realistic expectations. If your pup is only 10 weeks old let's not expect a perfect pup. ...