Dog Training

If you were to ask me what is the most common behavior problem I would answer…. ….jumping. And I can show you 10 different ways to deal with and stop this behavior. But, if you were sitting across from me telling me that your dog is the world’s worst jumper I would NOT show you how to stop jumping. Why would I do that? Before I show you how to stop jumping (which can happen in less than five minutes) I need to make sure of one thing. I have to make sure that you are not teaching and reinforcing… Read the rest

What would you consider America’s most sacred document? I would wager that most of you would say “The Declaration Of Independence.” Did you know that the word “independence” does not appear in the The Declaration Of Independence.” It’s titled “The Unanimous Declaration Of The Thirteen United States Of America,” Which is a little bit of a shock because…. Americans take their freedom and independence very seriously – and for good reason. I think we are so closely tied to our freedom that we have a difficult time thinking about using crates. About confining our dogs. Just yesterday I was working… Read the rest

Ever heard of the band Creed? Pretty big deal a few years back. But I guarantee none of us would have ever heard of them if they kept their original name. See, their original name was…. …..naked toddler. ICK! What a dumb name. What a huge mistake to make naming a band. But everyone makes mistakes. And the band members of Creed were smart enough to realize what an incredibly stupid name it was and moved on. Everyday I meet with dog owners that think they have completely screwed up their dog. They feel bad. And they beat themselves up.… Read the rest

Just about every week I work with a new dog that I would describe as a…. ….brat! This type of dog loves to steal ANYTHING. Paper, towels, shoes, pens, eyeglasses, underwear. socks you name it. They grab it and run like hell. Often getting the entire family involved in the chase. These same dogs often jump, bite and are world class pests! Most of the dogs that I work with like this have been to a class or two. The instructor has told them that positive reinforcement and treats will solve all their problems. They tell dog owners that punishment… Read the rest

Look at this question that came in from Grace: “I have been having trouble with my dog no matter what I do he digs in the garbage can at night. Last night he ate a big bag of chicken scraps bones, skin, and much more! I try, but now he is sick and has funny poops.” Grace H. Grace, you are lucky he just has funny poops. Getting into the garbage and eating other things can and has resulted in injury and even death. So here are your options: 1. Manage the behavior – Put a strong lid on the… Read the rest

How Do I Get My Dog To Stop Barking? Question came into ADTM World Headquarters. Hey Eric, Thanks for all the great information. My dog loves to bark his head off at just about anything. How do I get my dog to stop barking?” Here is my answer: “You get your dog to stop barking the same way you get a dog to stop doing any behavior.” Was that answer a little too vague? Let me break it down for you Sparky. Here’s the deal: When you want your dog to stop doing a behavior ie., barking, begging, digging, jumping,… Read the rest

Back in the summer of 1995 I opened my dog training business in Fall River MA. My folks and family were HUGE in helping me get it started. But once the doors opened it was up to me to get enough customers through the doors to keep them opened. People make business very complicated but there is one overriding problem that you need to solve. You have to have enough people interested in what you provide (product or service) to make a profit. Having no money, no business experience, no contacts and (believe it or not) being (and still am… Read the rest