Do you know what I noticed recently? That my dogs, Abby, Charlie and Zoe, by the end of the holidays are not as well behaved as other times of the year. By the way, I take 100% responsibility for their unruliness. I, as a dog trainer, know that consistency, boundaries, exercise etc., is essential for having balanced dogs.

My doggies needed a refresher course, and so did I, in order to go back to our quiet and enjoyable life, and so these are a few things that we are doing:

• Exercise – walking, of course, but since it snowed they were able to go out and play.
• Crate time – about an hour or so after each meal. 
• Waiting patiently – for treats, food, attention, etc. 
• No bolting out any door – Zoe is still getting the hang of it

Even though the few things I listed above, there are more, may seem inconsequential to us, pet parents, let me tell you from experience that they are the difference between enjoying your life with your dog or living with a nightmare. In my case, I have 3 of them.

Every dog is an individual, and by understanding and acknowledging that fact, the approach I take with each dog is different.

I know that having a dog is a lot of work, but it’s also amazingly beautiful and just like they bring joy and laughter to our lives, we need to do our part and fulfill their needs. Don’t you think so?