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![Golden Retriever swimming wearing a life vest fetching a toy.](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Golden-Retriever-swimming-wearing-a-life-vest-fetching-a-toy-400x267.jpeg)
Expert Advice: Fitness & Exercise
Can All Dogs Swim? How to Teach a Dog to Swim
Does your dog run with excitement to every body of water in sight? Maybe you can’t walk past a creek or pond without your pup diving in. Or maybe your dog treats water like the enemy and will do anything to stay dry. Every dog is different and not all are born with a love […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/teach-dog-to-swim/
| June 3, 2021
![Beagle sitting waiting for a treat being held above his head.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/19115108/Beagle-sitting-waiting-for-a-treat-being-held-above-his-head-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Training
Positive Reinforcement Dog Training: The Science Behind Operant Conditioning
Positive reinforcement training involves rewarding your dog for the things they do right. It's based on the science of animal learning.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/operant-conditioning-positive-reinforcement-dog-training/
| June 16, 2021
![Two Australian Cattle Dogs playing outdoors.](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Two-Australian-Cattle-Dogs-playing-outdoors-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Basic Training
How to Break Up a Dog Fight
Dog fights are intense, dangerous, and scary. And when your beloved pet is involved, your instinct will be to step into the line of fire to rescue them. It's essential for your own safety and that of your dog that you know how to correctly recognize and break up a dog fight. Why Do Dogs […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/stopping-dog-fight-confrontation-fighting-dogs/
| June 18, 2021
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Canine Partners Spotlight Winter 2024
Dumped Dog Giving Back Through Therapy Work Thor was left behind at a fast food restaurant in Arizona. For more than a month, he was on his own, seeking handouts and hunting for food. That was until Barbara Tilben-Salisbury entered his life and loaded him onto her RV with her four dogs. She recognized a […]
https://www.akc.org/register/information/canine-partners/newsletter/canine-partners-spotlight-winter-2024/
| March 14, 2024
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Expert Advice: DIY Projects
DIY Cognitive Dog Toys for When You Are Stuck at Home
Dogs are incredibly smart, and they need mental exercise just like they need physical exercise. This is particularly true during times of the year when dogs find themselves stuck indoors. Boredom in dogs leads to frustration and destructive behavior. But giving your dog a cognitive workout burns off excess energy, provides entertainment, and prevents problem […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/do-it-yourself-cognitive-dog-toys-for-home/
| January 27, 2023
![Japanese Akitainu getting a treat from a young woman outdoors in the fall.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/27160743/Japanese-Akitainu-getting-a-treat-from-a-young-woman-outdoors-in-the-fall-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Training
The Right Treats Make the Best Rewards: How to Choose
There are many ways to reward your dog for a job well done. Throwing a tennis ball might be great at the end of a long “stay,” or a romp in the backyard after practicing “wait” by the door. But food treats are often the most convenient and effective way to influence your dog’s behavior. […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/dog-training-treats/
| January 27, 2023
![portrait cute dog welsh corgi pembroke headband with ears rabbit, smiles as easter hare on pink background](https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/04120550/Pembroke-Welsh-Corgi-wearing-bunny-ears-on-a-pink-background-400x267.jpeg)
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
Easter Safety and Activities for Dogs
Many of our favorite Easter treats and traditions can be dangerous for our dogs, but with some prep, you'll be able to enjoy the day and keep your dog safe.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/dog-easter-safety-activities/
| March 17, 2023
![Concept annual molt, coat shedding, moulting dogs. Brush for dog fur care.](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Siberian-Husky-laying-down-indoors-next-to-a-large-pile-of-fur-and-brushes-400x267.jpeg)
Expert Advice: Cleaning
Yearly Home Cleaning Guide for Pet Owners
This year, while you're airing bedding, flinging open the windows, mopping the floors, and dusting everything in sight, don't forget to include your dog's living space too. It's important to take a yearly audit of your pet's supplies and sanitize any items such as toys that may be used often. Make your annual cleaning ritual […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/spring-cleaning-guide-pet-owners/
| March 17, 2023
![beagle-puppy-easter-egg-hunt-header](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/beagle-puppy-easter-egg-hunt-header-400x267.jpg)
Expert Advice: Lifestyle
Create a Springtime Egg Hunt Your Dog Will Love
Egg hunts are a springtime tradition, but don't let kids have all the fun! Create an egg hunt for your dog for a simple, fun scent game your pup will love.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/springtime-plastic-egg-hunts-for-dogs/
| March 30, 2023
![french bulldog takes a bath](https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/French-Bulldog-in-a-bubble-bath-with-bubbles-on-its-head-400x267.jpeg)
Expert Advice: Health
Can I Wash My Dog With Soap?
When it's bathtime, the best way to keep your pet clean is with products specially formulated for dogs. But what happens if you run out of dog shampoo? Can you use soap made for people on your dog? What Can I Wash My Dog With? Dog shampoos made with detergents work best on canine skin. They support […]
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/can-i-wash-my-dog-with-soap/
| May 5, 2023