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As a professional dog trainer, I’ve seen so many preventable issues arise—not because dogs are “bad,” but because we, as humans, often misinterpret their needs and communication. The truth is, most dog-related problems (including bites and behavioral issues) could be avoided if we simply took the time to understand them better.

So today, I want to share the top three things I wish every dog owner knew—things that would make life safer, happier, and more harmonious for both dogs and humans alike.

As we continue to celebrate National train your dog month this January, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what sets the foundation for success in training and behavior—and one of the most powerful tools you can use is consistency.

Whether you’re teaching basic manners, working on a specific challenge, or simply building a stronger bond with your dog, routines can make all the difference. Dogs thrive on predictability, and by creating consistent patterns in their daily lives, you’re giving them the structure they need to succeed.

The start of a new year always feels like a fresh slate—a time to reflect, set goals, and take steps toward making life better for ourselves and our dogs. This January, there’s an extra reason to focus on your dog’s training: it’s National train your dog month!

Training isn’t just about teaching your dog new tricks or better manners (though those are always a bonus). It’s about building a stronger bond, boosting your dog’s confidence, and making life easier and more enjoyable for both of you.

As the calendar turns to a new year, it’s hard not to feel the excitement of a fresh start. There’s something about this time of year that encourages reflection on what’s passed and inspires us to set goals for what’s ahead.

This mindset isn’t just for us—it’s a fantastic opportunity to think about our dogs, too. The New Year is the perfect time to hit the reset button, revisit training goals, and create a plan to help your pup thrive in the months to come.

Let’s talk about how you can reflect, reset, and set new goals to make 2025 a pawsitive year for you and your dog.

The holiday season is all about gratitude, and here at Sit n Stay, we have so much to be thankful for—including the incredible stories and connections we share with our clients. This week, we want to highlight a very special pup named Moose, a little dachshund with a huge heart—and an even bigger support system.

Moose’s story reminds us of an important truth: it takes a village to raise a dog. Just like raising a child, ensuring your pup grows up happy, healthy, and well-loved often involves a community of people who step in to help. And Moose has one of the best villages around!

As the holiday season is in full swing and we inch closer to the end of the year, I always find myself reflecting on everything that’s happened—not just for me, but for my family, and of course, my dogs. There’s something about December that feels like the perfect time to hit pause and think about where we’ve been and where we’re going. And I bet you’re doing the same.

So, let’s talk about it: How was this year for you and your dog? What went well? What could have been better? And most importantly, what do you want for your dog in the year ahead?

When most people think of dog trainers, they picture someone teaching dogs to sit, stay, or walk politely on a leash. While those are important skills, at Sit n Stay Dog Training, we believe that understanding your dog—and truly helping them thrive—goes far beyond teaching commands. It’s about looking at the whole dog: their health, behavior, environment, and the unique bond they share with their family.

Over the last 25+ years, I’ve had the privilege of working with thousands of dogs and their families. Along the way, I’ve learned that the most effective way to support our four-legged friends isn’t just about training—it’s about being a resource for every aspect of their well-being.

As a dog trainer, I’m often asked about my training philosophy—especially when it comes to socialization. Socialization is crucial for any dog’s confidence and well-being, but there’s an art to it, and that art lies in finding a middle path. I’ve learned that while social play is beneficial, it’s just as important to teach dogs structure and focus, so they can enjoy play while also listening to their handlers in any setting.

This philosophy became clear to me through my own journey with Greta, my Rottweiler. Rottweilers can often face stigmas, so I wanted Greta to be the best ambassador for her breed. I started Greta’s socialization young, enrolling her in three different puppy classes, doggy daycare, and playgroups. I thought, “The more, the better!” But, as I soon learned, that strategy can sometimes backfire. Here’s how Greta’s experience taught me the importance of a well-rounded approach to socialization.

Bringing a new dog home is always an adventure, filled with excitement and anticipation. But what happens when your new furry friend doesn’t fit into the family as smoothly as you hoped? I experienced this first-hand with our most recent adopted dog, Dozer. On paper, he was perfect—a friendly, easily handleable, and well-mannered dog without any major behavioral issues. But as we quickly learned, sometimes it takes more than good manners to make a new dog feel truly “at home.”

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and fun. But if you’re a dog owner, the holiday also brings some unique challenges when it comes to keeping your dog comfortable, safe, and well-behaved. Whether you’re leaving your dog at home, bringing them to a family gathering, or hosting the celebration at your own home, here are some tips to help make Thanksgiving as stress-free and enjoyable as possible for both you and your dog.

As dog owners, we all want what’s best for our pups. When it comes to social play, you might be wondering: Does my dog really need to play with other dogs? Some dogs seem to thrive on it, while others might be indifferent—or even downright uncomfortable—in group play settings. In this article, we’ll explore the role of dog-dog interactions, the benefits of play, and how to know if it’s right for your dog.

As pet parents, we know that training is just one part of raising a happy, well-behaved dog. Our dogs are complex beings with unique needs beyond the basics, and that's where a blend of training, wellness, and health support becomes invaluable. I’m excited to introduce our new membership, designed to provide not only training resources but also essential guidance on both holistic and conventional care for your dog.