Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Newsletters


I'm updating my business model and using some new and improved services! This has pros and cons for all my clients, followers and friends. With this improvements, I'll be implementing some changes!

NEW Email Address:  dogtraining@yooperpaws.com

NEW Newsletter Sign Up Form

If you previously signed up through Kit, then there is no need to sign up again as I've imported your data for you. If you haven't signed up yet, please do so with this new and improved Google Form.

Now there is one simple form to sign up for the PawCAKES Newsletter, the Helping Fearful Dogs Feel Safe Club, and Yooper Paws Special Promotions Emails.


Thank You for following this blog and all the support you've shown me.

Feel free to contact me at dogtraining@yooperpaws.com  if you need help!

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

FREE Workshop: The ABC's of Dog Training

 Upcoming Workshop: The ABC’s of Dog Training



Live on Monday, August 4th @ 11AM (CT)
The LIVE Meeting is FREE for everyone to join as a preview. The recording will only be available to those who register for the Turning Struggles Into Strengths Membership!

If your dog’s behavior has you feeling confused, overwhelmed, or stuck… this workshop is for you!

On Monday, August 4th at 11AM, we’re kicking off our brand-new monthly live workshop series with a powerful topic:

The ABC’s of Dog Training: Antecedent – Behavior – Consequence

👉 Join us LIVE on Google Meets

We can't wait to see you there!

Understanding this foundational concept can change everything about how you approach your dog’s behavior, especially when it comes to frustration, reactivity, and emotional regulation.

Why the ABC’s Matter

Most problem behaviors like barking, lunging, jumping, pulling on the leash don’t happen in isolation. They’re part of a pattern. When you understand the ABCs, you learn to see that pattern clearly.

  • Antecedent: What happens before the behavior

  • Behavior: What the dog does

  • Consequence: What happens after the behavior

This framework helps you identify what’s triggering your dog, why they’re reacting, and how you can shift the outcome without relying on punishment or outdated techniques.

It’s not just a training method, it’s a mindset shift.

What We’ll Cover in the Workshop

During this live Zoom session, we’ll explore:

  • How to observe the ABC patterns in real life

  • How to change the antecedents (preventative strategies)

  • How to use reinforcement to influence better behavior

  • Real examples from members (you can even submit your own!)

  • Practical exercises you can use immediately after the workshop

Whether you're dealing with leash reactivity, barking at the door, or general chaos, this workshop will give you the tools to start seeing your dog in a whole new light.

Don’t Miss It!

📍 Workshop: The ABC’s of Dog Training
📅 Date: Monday, August 4th
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM Central (Replay available for Patreon Members only)
👥 Access: FREE Preview, open to all who want to join live.

Why This Workshop is Different

We're not just teaching you what to do, we're teaching you why it works.
This is the "nerdy side" of dog training that empowers you to make thoughtful, effective choices—not just react in the moment.

You'll leave this workshop with:

  • More clarity on your dog’s triggers

  • Better strategies to modify behavior without stress

  • A stronger connection to your dog based on understanding and trust

Ready to Turn Struggles Into Strengths?

Whether you're deep in the behavior trenches or just looking to grow your skills, this workshop will set the tone for everything to come.

Join us for the first live session of our new monthly workshop series and take your training to the next level.

If you're not yet a member, there’s still time to join before registration closes!
Doors close at midnight on August 4th.

👉 Join the Membership Now

Sunday, July 13, 2025

Surviving Adolescence

Surviving the Teen Dog Phase: Tips to Help You Both Thrive



Adolescence can be a wild ride for dogs and humans alike! If you’re living with a teenage dog right now, take a deep breath, you’re not alone. 

Here are some practical ways to help you and your young canine buddy get through this sometimes-chaotic stage with your sanity (and your bond) intact.

🐾 Keep Up with Training Lessons

Stick with those training lessons! All those basic cues you learned in puppy class — watch, sit, down, stay — still matter. Keep practicing them every day.

If your dog suddenly struggles with a cue, try one of two things:

1️⃣ If it’s an essential behavior for daily life, take a step back and revisit the basics — think of it as starting fresh. Don’t worry: your dog will pick it back up faster this time around (even if it’s the second… or third… or fourth time!).

2️⃣ If it’s a fun trick or advanced skill that isn’t urgent, give it a break. Let your dog’s brain reset for a few weeks, then circle back for a quick refresher later.

🎾 Play, Play, Play!


Never underestimate the power of play. It’s one of the most underused tools in training and in building a great relationship with your dog. Make time for 5–10 minutes a day of your dog’s favorite game — tug, fetch, hide and seek, you name it!


Better yet, weave skills into your play. Games that teach cues, impulse control, or recall can be super effective and fun for you both.

🐕 Find the Right Exercise Balance

Teen dogs are often overflowing with energy, but finding the sweet spot for exercise is key. Too little, and all that pent-up energy can bubble over into mischief. Too much, and you risk turning your dog into a super-athlete who needs massive workouts just to cope.

What’s the best approach? Short, frequent play sessions throughout the day help burn energy without overdoing it. Mix in some enrichment that uses some mental energy, such as playing Find It Games. 

Save the long marathons for special adventures, not daily routine.

🌟 Stay Positive and Upbeat

Focus on everything your dog has learned and keep the training fun! The more enjoyable you are, the more your easily-distracted teen will want to stick with you. Be silly, be upbeat, and celebrate the little wins.

😂 Mistakes Happen — Laugh It Off

Every dog makes mistakes, especially adolescents. When your pup pulls a stunt that tests your patience, take a breath and try to find the humor in it later. Call a friend, share your story, and laugh about that moment you dashed outside in your pajamas to catch your runaway dog.

The more you can laugh, the easier it is to let go of frustration and move forward. After you’ve had your giggle, think about how you can prevent the same mishap next time with better management and a little extra training.

Remember: You don’t have to tackle the teenage dog stage alone! The Crazy Canine Adolescent Community is here to support you with tips, cheerleading, and a safe place to share the ups and downs. Come join us, we’re all in this together! 💛🐾