Listen up, people. Stop putting your dogs and puppies in the backyard unattended. Does this sound a little harsh? Maybe. But a vet bill for $1000+ when your pup ingests a pillow from the outside lawn furniture sure feels a lot harsher.
My clients come to me and want me to help with stopping their dogs from digging holes in the backyard, chewing up lawn furniture and jumping the fence. The first thing I ask them is “where were YOU?”
Puppies and dogs have the mental capacity of a 2-4 year old. I have never met one responsible parent who left their toddler unattended in the backyard for hours at a time. Our dogs are no different.
I understand that you want the dog to get some fresh air and exercise when you don’t have time for a walk. I do too! But backyards make poor babysitters and GREAT demolition derby zones. It is the perfect environment for dogs to practice bad behavior to their loyal canine heart’s content.
A dog needs structured exercise and designated playtimes. Stop using big words, Bethany, what does that even mean?
This means go for a walk with your dog. Put a leash on your dog, teach them how to heel…then go for a walk around the neighborhood. Get out and smell the roses. Give your dog a chance to do what they do best…walk and sniff. Then come home and teach them tricks or play fetch.
You made the choice to bring a pup into your life, give them some attention and more importantly keep them safe!
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The Real Reason Your Dog Loses Their Mind on Walks
Does your dog relax peacefully at home but transform into a pulling, barking, distracted mess the moment you head outside?
This common behavior isn’t a sign of stubbornness—it’s often the result of overstimulation and a lack of emotional control in new environments.
In this article, you’ll learn why it happens, the mistakes many owners unknowingly make on walks, and how the right training can help your dog stay calm and confident anywhere in Utah County, Salt Lake City, and beyond.
Long Walks vs. Training Sessions: Which One Really Creates a Better-Behaved Dog?
Many dog owners believe the secret to better behavior is simply taking their dog on longer walks.
But what if more exercise is actually making some behavior problems worse? While physical activity is essential, long, unstructured walks can build endurance while reinforcing habits like pulling on the leash, ignoring commands, and becoming overstimulated by the environment. In this article, you’ll discover why training sessions often produce better long-term results than endless miles, how structured walks teach self-control and focus, and why the combination of exercise and training creates a calmer, more enjoyable companion.
If you’ve been wondering why your dog is still hyper after an hour-long walk, this guide will help you understand what’s really happening—and how a smarter approach can transform your daily walks and your relationship with your dog.
How to Build Your Dog’s Confidence: A Complete Guide for Dog Owners
Does your dog bark at strangers, react to other dogs, or struggle with new situations?
Discover how to build your dog’s confidence through calm leadership, structured training, and simple daily routines. Learn the common mistakes that can unintentionally encourage fear and how to raise a calmer, happier, and more well-behaved dog with practical, proven techniques.
Perfect for dog owners looking for professional dog training advice in Utah County and Salt Lake City.
Protective or Possessive? The Truth About Dogs That Guard Their Owners
Is your dog truly protecting you, or are they acting out of fear and possessiveness?
Many owners mistake controlling behaviors for loyalty, but allowing your dog to make decisions about who can approach you can lead to stress, anxiety, and even aggression. In this guide, you’ll learn how to recognize the difference between protective and possessive behavior, why teaching trust is the key to a calm and confident dog, and the training techniques that create lasting results.
Whether you’re searching for expert dog training in Utah County or Salt Lake City, Utah, these practical tips will help you build a safer, happier relationship with your dog.