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!
More Tips
Check out our other posts
Your Dog’s Favorite Human Isn’t You – And Here’s Why
Ever feel the sting of betrayal when your dog wags harder for someone else? Here’s the cold, hard truth: your dog’s favorite human might not be you—and it’s not because they don’t love you. Dogs gravitate toward calm, consistent leaders who make them feel safe and understood. If someone else is stepping up while you’re slacking, guess what? They’ve taken your crown. Click here to read why your dog’s loyalty isn’t guaranteed—and how to win it back.
Does Your Dog Feel Time Passing? New Year’s and Dogs’ Sense of Time
Ah, the New Year—time for resolutions, fireworks, and asking yourself: Does my dog even know it’s 2024? Spoiler alert: No, they don’t. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t completely tuned into the rhythms of life—and they’re probably judging you for your lack of follow-through on last year’s promises. Ready to uncover the science of how dogs experience time? Spoiler: it’s not as fancy as a calendar, but it’s still fascinating.
How to Pick the Best Puppy for Your Family (Without Ruining Your Life)
Choosing the right puppy isn’t as simple as picking the cutest fluffball in the room. Do it wrong, and you’re signing up for chewed shoes, shredded furniture, and a lifetime of regret. Want to avoid disaster? You need to know the truth about adopting, buying, and why temperament testing could save your sanity. Click here to read the full blog—because trust me, your future self (and your couch) will thank you.
The Real Talk on Reward & Correction
Balanced dog training isn’t some villain in the dog training world—it’s the unsung hero we all need. Sure, the battle between rewards and corrections might feel like a family dinner debate, but let’s get real: life isn’t just treats and rainbows. Balanced training offers clear boundaries and rewards, creating harmony without endless bribes. Want to know why it works and how it transforms behavior faster than you can say “leash tug-of-war”? Click here to read the full story and discover the game-changing secret!