Puppies present a variety of challenges as they develop. First, they’re sweet babies, following us around, looking to us for every cue. Then, just when you think you’ve got a handle on house-training, basic obedience commands, and confidence building (in both of you), baby teeth and brains seem to go right out the window, simultaneously. […]

For thousands of years, Basenjis served as hunting dogs and have since won the hearts of many. Here are some interesting facts about this ancient breed.

To most people, training a dog begins and ends with commands and equipment. They never think that developing a relationship with their dog through training is possible, let alone critical. But by forming a relationship with your dog through an activity like training — rather than only from cuddling on the couch or slipping him […]

The Food and Drug Administration has just confirmed what veterinarians and dog experts have been saying for years: Be wary of feeding your dog certain “human” foods. On July 27, the federal agency released a warning to pet owners advising that some seemingly harmless foods can be dangerous—sometimes deadly—to our canine companions. “Our bodies may […]

Teaching your dog tricks is a great way to build upon and reinforce his skills. Learn more from AKC's dog training experts.

Positive reinforcement dog training, also referred to as force-free, reward-based, or clicker training, is a method that focuses on telling your dog when he is correct, instead of only pointing out what is incorrect. This is done through a marker for correctness and timing, paired with a reward that is reinforcing to the dog. The […]

It’s important for dog owners to establish a human-canine relationship built on a strong foundation of mutual trust, patience, understanding, fairness, consistency, and love. So where do you begin? Spend Time With Your Puppy Aside from feeding (one of Purina® Pro Plan’s® 30 unique dry formulas is always a great choice!) and providing health care, […]

Most dog owners have experienced those frustrating moments when, despite all the training and practice, their dog simply doesn't listen to them. As you and your puppy get to know each other, it's important to remember that listening is a two-way-street: he's learning what you expect just as you're learning to tune into his signals. […]

Catch your dog with his nose on the counter? Some dogs are "counter-surfers," meaning they see what kind of food they can steal from any number of places, including right off your counter. When a dog tries to steal food, and he succeeds, he learns that he gets a reward, which only reinforces the behavior. […]

Mazie Grace THDD CGC was born to be a guide dog and faithfully serves her owner Beverly Hammett of Starkville, MS, enabling Beverly to live a more independent life. But Mazie’s service to others has not stopped there. In her off-duty, she works as a therapy dog in nursing homes and youth centers. She recently […]