There's a lot of information out there about how to train a dog. You can teach your pet just about anything, using a variety of methods, but there are plenty of mistakes owners make when training their canine companions. These missteps are super common and can have a big impact on whether or not your […]

At the 2022 National Agility Championship (NAC) in Ocala, Florida, hundreds of the nation's top canines compete with hopes of being named one of the best Agility dogs. Of the qualifying contenders, it's typical to see dozens of Border Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs. This year, there was even a Bulldog and a Borzoi! But a […]

When I was 14 years old, I decided I wanted to become a veterinarian. I liked animals. I had a horse, a dog, and my bedroom was home to eight aquariums. But there was something that deepened my passion—James Herriot. The books written about that fictional veterinarian told me that’s what I want to do. […]

Want a smarter, more empathetic, possibly healthier child? It may come as no surprise that having a family dog can benefit your child’s emotional intelligence. A collection of scientific studies outlined by Nienke Endenburg and Ben Baarda in their paper The Role of Pets in Enhancing Human Well-being: Effects on Child Development, along with other […]

Rescuing a dog is exciting but can also be intimidating. Whether you’re looking at the local shelter or using a private rescue organization, there can be many dogs to choose from. Although you might be tempted to pick the first cute face you see, it’s essential to make an informed choice. Your goal is to […]

So, you've potty trained your puppy. You take them outside for walks and let them out in the backyard for bathroom breaks. And your puppy is happy to do their business outside. That should be that, right? But your puppy keeps peeing in the house. Why? It's probably one of two common reasons. Either you […]

Getting Started in Training Before AKC Community Canine℠ The AKC's Canine Good Citizen program trains dogs "from puppies to the community." With the introduction of AKC Community Canine, the Canine Good Citizen Program now provides a comprehensive 3 level training program for you and your dog. AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy The First Step in Training You […]

Recently I helped a breeder friend compile a package of handouts to send to prospective owners. This was her first litter so she was new to the process. I was surprised to learn that her bitch’s breeder had not sent her anything comparable when she was shopping for a puppy. I used to think these […]

Competing with a senior dog can come with its fair share of concerns, from joints to weakened eyesight — but at nearly 14 years old, Radiance, a Shetland Sheepdog, is still moving well in Agility. In fact, she’ll be the oldest dog competing in the 2022 National Agility Championship (NAC) on April 1-3 in Ocala, […]

Now that you’ve decided to enter your dog in a conformation dog show, you will need to decide which dog show class to compete in. Your dog will be eligible for some classes and not for others, so that should help eliminate some of the guesswork. Most dogs at a conformation dog show are competing […]