Behavior & Training

Not only are basic dog commands a means of communication, they’re beneficial to a dog’s safety, happiness and overall well-being.

Scent training for dogs taps into one of their impressive, natural abilities: their well-honed sense of smell. It offers dogs vital mental stimulation, as well as helps boost their confidence, strengthens their bond with their human companions, and provides them with a rewarding outlet for their instincts.

Leash training a puppy is an all-new experience that often comes with challenges. Puppies may pull or get distracted by every sound. So how can you set the stage for a lifetime of walks together that are actually enjoyable, not a relentless struggle?

Early socialization can ensure that your puppy is comfortable in various environments, and with different people, animals and situations. A structured socialization process can also help prevent fear-based behaviors, anxiety and aggression.

While TV and movies may make it appear like fetch comes as part of a canine’s standard operating system, the truth is, most dogs take some education before they’re playing the game the way it was meant to be played. But fear not. With some time and patience, most dogs can learn to play fetch, and in time, learn to love it.

For dog parents (especially new dog parents) trying to reward good behavior and discourage bad behavior, distinguishing between play and aggression can be one of the toughest tasks of all. And the abstract lines of questioning you may hear from well intended friends, relatives and even trainers doesn’t always help.

If you’re here reading this, seeking out information for first time puppy owners, you’re probably a good first time puppy owner. There’s an endless trove of puppy care out there — some of it worth heeding, some of it worth chucking. But in our book, anyone seeking out what’s best for their puppy is, in all likelihood, a great pet parent.

Alongside potty training, crate training is often a necessary order of business in order to accustom your puppy to periodic alone time. Whether it’s work or play, pet parents have their reasons for leaving the house, and our 8-step guide to crate training can help puppies develop a sense of independence for those times you simply can’t supervise.

So while you’re busy learning how to change a diaper, allow us to resolve at least one of those concerns for you as a belated baby shower gift: Introducing your dog to your baby.

You know that feeling when you come home after a long, stressful day at work to find your dog waiting anxiously for you at the door, tail wagging, and ready to greet you, like he thought he’d never see you again? Affectionate, loyal and loving, our canine companions have a way of making us feel like the only people in the world.