The Weekly High Five 🐾

One Quick Win 🙏 One Video to Watch 👀 One Post I Loved

Hey Reader,
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Ever feel like your dog knew a command perfectly last week but suddenly acts like they've never heard it before? You're not imagining it. And it's probably not your dog's fault.

This week, I'm revealing the three secrets that make training actually stick for life, sharing a crucial safety skill you need before Halloween candy litters the sidewalks, and highlighting why your dog's physical fitness matters just as much as their training.

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One Quick Win 🙏

This week's Quick Win focuses on "Emergency Leave It" for Halloween candy:

1. Start with a low value item on the floor and hold a high value treat in your closed fist.
2. When your dog sniffs or paws at the floor item, say nothing and keep your fist closed.
3. The moment they look away from the floor item, say "yes" and immediately give them the treat from your fist.
4. Practice with progressively more tempting items, working up to actual wrapped candy.
5. Take this outside and practice on walks where candy wrappers are on the ground.

The day after Halloween, sidewalks and yards are covered in dropped candy. Chocolate is toxic to dogs, and even "safe" candy can cause blockages from wrappers. Practice this now so your dog reliably ignores those tempting Halloween leftovers during your walks.

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One Video To Watch 👀

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Why does your dog listen perfectly at home but "forget" everything in public? In this week's essential video, I reveal the three secrets that make training actually last a lifetime instead of falling apart.

Learn why establishing a routine is more powerful than you think, discover why repeating commands makes things worse, and find out the one timing mistake that confuses dogs during reward based training.
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These aren't just tips for new dog owners. Even experienced families miss these crucial elements that make the difference between temporary obedience and lasting behavior change.

One Social Post I Loved 🧡

Think training is just about obedience? This week's post from @thewellnesscentre shows dogs doing figure 8 patterns around pylons, and it's all about fitness! Maintaining optimal muscle strength and flexibility is incredibly important for every breed and age.
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I love how this demonstrates that physical conditioning isn't just for agility dogs or athletes. Simple exercises like figure 8s help dogs build core strength, improve coordination, and maintain joint health as they age.
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Plus, it's a fun way to add variety to training sessions while keeping your dog physically sound.

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October brings Halloween excitement, but it also brings training challenges and safety hazards. Making sure your training sticks through distractions, protecting your dog from toxic treats on the ground, and maintaining their physical fitness all contribute to a healthier, safer, better behaved dog.
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The key is consistency across all areas. Consistent commands, consistent practice with safety skills, and consistent physical exercise create dogs who are prepared for whatever life throws at them.

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Questions about making training stick, teaching emergency leave it, or building your dog's fitness? Send me a message. I love helping families create lasting results!

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Here's to training that actually lasts!

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Pam,
CPDT-KA
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PS. Need personalized help with consistency or safety training? Let's work together, virtually or in person! >>>> Click here to book your Free Call with Me​
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