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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Why You’re Your Puppy’s Favorite Target (And What To Do About It)
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It’s not random, and it’s not aggression. You’re simply their favorite person… and the one they’ve learned the most from.
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Your Dog Isn’t Disobedient—They’re Making Better Choices Than You”
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Dogs don’t ignore commands because they forgot them. They ignore them because, in that moment, something else feels more rewarding—and nothing is telling them otherwise.
In this blog, you’ll learn why your dog “chooses” not to listen, how everyday habits are reinforcing the wrong behaviors, and what to do differently so your dog listens the first time, walks calmly, and settles at home. It’s not about being stricter—it’s about being clearer, more consistent, and more valuable than the distractions around you.
The #1 Mistake Dog Owners Make That Keeps Bad Behavior Going
Most dog owners believe that if they just say it louder, repeat it more, or add a little more emotion, their dog will finally listen.
But what if that’s the exact reason the behavior isn’t changing? The truth is, dogs don’t respond to lectures—they respond to clarity. And when we constantly talk during unwanted behavior, we often add energy instead of removing it.
In this blog, you’ll learn why talking can actually make behaviors worse, and how shifting to calm, silent leadership helps your dog understand expectations faster, creating a more peaceful and controlled home.