Force-Free Dog Training

 What Does “Force-Free Dog Training” Mean?

Force-free dog training means teaching dogs without using fear, pain, intimidation, or physical punishment.
Instead, it focuses on trust, communication, and cooperation between the dog and human.

In force-free training, we use:

• Positive reinforcement: Rewarding behaviors we want to see more of (like calm walking or coming when called).

• Management: Setting up the environment so the dog can make good choices (like using a long line instead of risking a failed recall).

• Empathy and observation: Understanding why a behavior is happening instead of simply trying to stop it.

It’s not “permissive” training; boundaries still exist.
It’s about teaching, not forcing; teaching helps dogs learn what works in our human world while feeling safe, understood, and empowered.

At its core, force-free training means:

No fear. No pain. No intimidation. Just kindness, communication, and science.

Example:

Instead of yanking a leash when your dog pulls, you might stop walking, wait for the leash to loosen, and reward them for checking in.

The message becomes:
“Pulling doesn’t get me anywhere, but walking nicely does!”

That’s learning through positive experiences, not fear of consequences.

An example of "old school" training that uses force, even a slightly might be when teaching a puppy to sit, gently pushing down on their bottom until it lowers to the ground. However with force-free trainer, the human generally holds a treat or other item above the dog's nose raising the head just enough for the bottom to naturally lower to the floor.  

We can use that example to take the explanation of force-free a bit further!

It use to be common to expect or demand the dog to sit simply because the human requested it no matter how the dog felt about it. 

• Cold, wet ground....sit because I said so! 
• Sore hips....sit because I said so!
• Fear of strangers....sit because I said so!

Thankfully times are changing and more and more humans are asking the question, "If my dog can't sit in this moment, why?" then changing up the environment to make it easier for the dog. For example, Azul has thick husky hair on his bottom making it difficult to maintain the sit position on slippery floors. I changed my training teaching Azul to stand still in places I might normally allow him to sit, avoiding asking him to sit on slippery floors. I also taught Azul that if ever holding a sit was not comfortable for him that he could always choose the option of laying down. This way he was still in the same place but was comfortable while he waited for me. 

Dog training then becomes a compromise of what I need my dogs to do in order to be safe in an environment plus what they need to feel calm and happy in that environment. Together we can be safe, calm, and happy!

Force-free training means I'm not going to force my do to do any behavior that isn't absolutely necessary for health and safety of us together as a team. All our training time is geared to creating trust and teamwork. I can trust my dogs be still while I'm distracted having a conversation, but they can often choose the position that feels best for them. When my dogs are younger or newer to training, I may ask for a sit, down or stand in a new environment telling them what I prefer in that situation. But as our teamwork grows, I can relax my needs for specific position and trust my dog to choose what is best for them in the environment in that moment. 

That doesn't meant that I never ask for a position from my dogs. If I need them to stay in specific spot for some reason, I'm going to lead them there and ask for a down/stay. Generally, they have no problem with the positions I request but if they do, I still look around the environment to ask WHY?

Being open to keeping the lines of communication flowing both directions is what makes us a team and helps provide a feeling of balance for me and my dogs.

Do you want to learn more about supporting your dog's choices?

Check out this blog: Choice, Agency, & Boundaries 

🚨 Limited Time Offer 🚨

Our Confident Canines Collection is now 30% OFF through October 31st! 🐾

This series is perfect for dog owners, service dog handlers, and canine professionals who want to build confidence, resiliency, and teamwork through force-free, game-based training methods.

What you’ll learn:
✔️ Understanding the 5 Core Canine Confidences
✔️ Establishing Routines
✔️ Developing Good Behaviors
✔️ Management Techniques

With guidance, you’ll gain the tools to help your dog feel safe, confident, and capable in everyday life.

💡 Normally $150 for lifetime access, but now just $105 through Oct 31st!

➡️ Join today on Patreon and start building a more confident canine!  

Emotional Balance

Emotional Balance: Dogs Have Struggles Too

World Mental Health Day Reflection

World Mental Health Day is a reminder to pause and think about the importance of emotional well-being. While the spotlight often shines on people, it’s equally important to recognize that our dogs, too, can struggle emotionally.

Research confirms what many dog lovers already know: dogs can experience anxiety, depression, and even trauma. Their emotional range may not be as wide as ours, but their struggles are very real. And if you’ve lived with a dog who suffers from anxiety, you’ve seen firsthand how deeply it affects them.
What Emotional Struggles Look Like in Dogs

Dogs experiencing fear or anxiety often show one of the five “F” responses:

Fight – lunging, barking, or growling to keep danger away.
Flight – retreating or fleeing to find safety.
Freeze – shutting down or “checking out” in overwhelming moments.
Fawn – appeasing behaviors like rolling over or excessive licking.
Fidget – restless movements, pacing, or repetitive actions.

These struggles may come from trauma, genetics, or unknown past experiences. Unfortunately, many anxious dogs rarely feel truly safe. They spend large parts of their day in heightened states of stress, constantly scanning or reacting, trying to regain a sense of calm. This is exhausting for the dog and heartbreaking for the humans who love them.

It Takes a Village: Supporting Dogs with Anxiety or Trauma

Helping a dog through fear, anxiety, or trauma isn’t something most people can (or should) do alone. Just like raising children, it often “takes a village.” A supportive team might include:

• Skilled trainers or behavior consultants
• Veterinarians or veterinary behaviorists
• Family and friends who understand the dog’s needs
• Neighbors and community members who interact with the dog
• Other dog owners who have “been there, done that”

I know this personally. I started the Helping Fearful Dogs Feel Safe program because I’ve lived with a dog struggling with anxiety. I’ve poured countless hours into learning how to support both the dog and the owner, because both are carrying heavy loads.

Trauma-Informed Training at Yooper Paws

This year, I took that commitment a step further and became a Certified Trauma-Informed Dog Practitioner through @pawsupdogs.

This training deepened my understanding of how trauma impacts dogs, emotionally, behaviorally, and even physically and how it also shapes the human side of the leash. Trauma affects connection, trust, and communication, which means we must approach both the dog and the human client with compassion, patience, and individualized strategies.

At Yooper Paws Training Center, this certification means:

• More thoughtful, gentle, and ethical support for every dog.
• Practical tools for helping anxious, fearful, or reactive dogs feel safe.
• A space where owners never feel judged for their dog’s struggles.
• Recognition that the human’s stress matters, too, and that healing is a team process.

Because your dog isn’t broken, and you aren’t alone. Together, we grow. 

The CAKES Approach

A core piece of my work is my CAKES framework, which guides both dogs and their people toward balance: Compassion, Awareness, Kindness, Empathy, Support.

CAKES ensures training isn’t just about behaviors. The dog centered approach to training is about meeting emotional needs, fostering safety, and building resilience.

The Big Picture: Finding Your Balance

Here’s the truth about balance: it looks different for everyone.

A stay-at-home parent may have different resources than someone working 10-hour shifts.

A high-energy herding dog has vastly different needs than a senior rescue.

Your goals may not match your neighbor’s and that’s okay.

This World Mental Health Day, I invite you to reflect on balance in your own life with time, training, play, food, exercise, emotions, and boundaries.

Ask yourself:

1. What matters most to me and my dog?
2. Where do I feel most out of balance?
3. What small steps could I take toward more harmony?

Because balance isn’t about what works for me or anyone else. It’s about what works for you and your dog. And that bond, built on compassion and understanding, is what true balance is really about.

Bark & Treat

 Join us for some fall fun at the Yooper Paws Training Center!

Bark & Treat

611 N Hooper St, Kingsford, MI  49802

October 30th from 6-7:30 PM

$10 To Enter the Trunk Design Contest!

Businesses, Families, & Groups are encouraged to decorate their vehicle trunk in Halloween flare, then pass out treats to owners and their dogs.

Set up begins at 5PM 

Judging at 5:45PM 

(Prizes will be awarded immediately following judging.)

Any fall flare decorations are allowed with bonus points earned for displays that are dog themed. Please do not include anything that is designed to pop out causing a startle response. Lights and scents encouraged!

Bark & Treat Owners

Owners are encouraged to bring out their dogs for the fun Bark & Treat Activities.

Social dogs are encouraged to attend from 6-7PM.

Dogs that may need a bit more space from other dogs are encouraged to attend from 7-7:30PM.

Please do not bring any dogs that are fearful of people in general for everyone's safety! 

At Yooper Paws of Love we have a soft spot in our hearts for dogs that are fearfully reactive and do our best to include them in all activities. But safety for everyone including your fearful dog is our first priority! If your dog is on the fearful side, please contact Yooper Paws to schedule a time to pick up a treat bag and play the games privately. 

 

In addition to the Bark & Treat Fun we will have additional games and activities set up inside and around the Yooper Paws Training Center. 

Photo Contest will be held indoors with a winner announced the following day via Social Media and an email to the winners. You must register and have your photo taken by the Yooper Paws representative to enter the photo contest. All entries may be shared on any Yooper Paws social media sites and/or contest sponsor sites.

We are requesting a small donation of $2 per dog to participate in activities & $10 donation to set up a trunk to hand out dog treats. All donations will be used to help our foster pups with medical care. A donation jar will be placed by the Photo Contest area! 

Contact Yooper Paws of Love to reserve your Bark & Treat spot and enter the Trunk Decorating Contest.

Text us or leave us a voicemail at 906-399-0548 with the Name and phone number you would like to register under and let us know if you are interested in sponsoring one of our games or contests. You can also reach out to us via email at dogtraining@yooperpaws.com

Special Thanks to Pawsitively Pups Training for helping us plan this event 

& the Volunteers who help with set up, games, and clean up!

October Theme: Finding Balance

Finding Balance in Dog Training and in Life with Dogs

When it comes to training our dogs to be wonderful, welcomed additions to our families, one word comes up again and again: balance.

Balance doesn’t mean perfection. It’s about discovering what works best for you, your lifestyle, and your dog. And because every dog and every human is different, there is no single “right” answer.

This month, we’re taking a deeper look at what it means to find balance. Not only in how we train our dogs, but in how we communicate with them, how we set boundaries, and how we structure our everyday lives together.

The Myth About “Positive Only” Training and Saying NO

One of the most common myths floating around is that positive reinforcement trainers never say “no.” According to the myth, if you’re using rewards, cookies, and force-free methods, then you must never raise your voice, set limits, or tell your dog to stop doing something.Here’s the problem: this myth makes many dog owners feel guilty.

They feel like they’re “failing” if the words “No!” “Stop that!” or even “You little rascal, get back here!” slip out in the heat of the moment.

But here’s the truth: we are human. We’re emotional beings. Sometimes we get frustrated, embarrassed, or overwhelmed. And that’s okay.

The goal of force-free, positive reinforcement training isn’t about pretending we’ll never say “no.” It’s about stacking the deck so we don’t need to say it as often. We do that by:

• Setting up the environment for success (using gates, crates, leashes, and other management tools).
• Reinforcing the behaviors we want to see more of.
• Giving our dogs appropriate outlets for their energy and instincts.

Dogs (just like humans) learn better when shown what to do instead of only being told what not to do. That said, acknowledging and using “no” as a boundary, without guilt, is part of the bigger picture of finding balance.

What Balance Looks Like in Training and Daily Life

Balance shows up in many areas of living with dogs. Let’s break down a few examples:

Time Balance

Life is busy. Between work, kids, chores, and commitments, where does dog training fit in? The trick is realizing training doesn’t have to mean long, formal sessions. Short, consistent interactions woven into daily life often work better and reduce stress for both you and your dog.

Training Method Balance

Most dog owners don’t use just one training style. I personally use a combination of force-free, positive reinforcement, and dog-centered approaches. Balance means finding a blend of methods that align with your values and meet your dog’s needs.

Family Balance

When more than one person is responsible for training and caring for a dog, consistency matters. A dog who gets mixed messages, like being allowed on the couch by one person but scolded by another, will struggle to learn. Balance comes when the whole family works together toward shared goals. It seems like we all struggle daily with finding time to balance work, the house, quality family time & dog training or enrichment time. The goal should not be perfection, but doing the best we can to ensure all our loved ones are taken care of to the best of our abilities.

Feeding Balance

Kibble? Raw? Canned? Homemade? The options are endless, and every dog owner seems to have strong opinions. But the “right” answer is the one that keeps your dog healthy and happy and fits your household’s lifestyle and budget.

Exercise Balance

How much is enough? Walks, playtime, fetch, training games, puzzle toys, and even the zoomies all count. Balance means finding the right mix of physical and mental outlets that leave your dog fulfilled without leaving you overwhelmed. The age old quote, “A tired dog is a happy dog!” is not always the best advice. Some dogs get overwhelmed or over-excited by too much exercise so be sure to find a balance of exercise and rest or calming activities. This isn’t going to match evenly such as a 60 min walk should equal a 60 min nap session. Every dog is different so the goal should be to find a balance that helps your dog remain healthy, active and happy in life.

Training vs. Games Balance

Is it better to focus on obedience or play? Should your dog practice heel the whole walk, or have plenty of sniff breaks? The truth is, both matter. Play isn’t the opposite of training, it’s part of it. Balance comes from knowing when to structure an activity and when to let your dog just be a dog.

Boundaries: For Dogs, for People, for Ourselves

Finding balance also means learning to set boundaries. This doesn’t only apply to dogs! It applies to us as humans, too.

With our dogs: Clear rules, limits, and expectations reduce stress. A calm “no” or redirection can be a boundary, but so can closing a door, using a gate, or redirecting energy into an appropriate outlet.

With other people: Sometimes we have to say “no” to the neighbor who insists on petting our shy dog, or the family member who sneaks food from the table.

With ourselves: We need to set realistic expectations. It’s okay to admit that life is busy and you can’t do it all perfectly. Balance isn’t about doing everything, but about choosing what matters most.

The Big Picture: Your Balance Will Look Different

The most important thing to remember is this: your balance doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

--A stay-at-home parent has different opportunities than someone working 10-hour shifts.
--A young herding dog has different needs than a senior rescue.
--Your goals for your dog may be completely different from your neighbor’s.

This October, I’m inviting you to join me in reflecting on balance: in time, training, play, food, exercise, boundaries, and life as a whole. Ask yourself the tough questions. Explore what really matters to you. And most importantly, give yourself permission to find the balance that works best for you and your dog.

The reflections and conversations will be taking place on our social media accounts on Facebook & Instagram so be sure to follow us there!

Because at the end of the day, you’re the one who lives with, cares for, and loves your dog. And that relationship is what balance is really about.

Finding Balance Challenge

Stretch & Reset: Canine Yoga, Flexibility & Bilateral Balance

Stretching and gentle yoga-style movement aren’t just cozy downtime for you and your dog — they’re powerful tools for building symmetry, flexibility, and balanced strength across both sides of the body. This week’s “Stretch & Reset” challenge focuses on safe, simple exercises that help your dog move more freely, prevent injuries, and feel more confident in their body.

Why bilateral balance matters

Dogs (like people) can develop asymmetries, favoring one side, stronger muscles on the left or right, or compensatory movement patterns after minor injuries. Training both sides intentionally helps:

• Reduce injury risk by strengthening stabilizing muscles evenly. Evidence shows that targeted conditioning and core work can reduce injury risk in athletic dogs. American Kennel Club

• Improve proprioception and postural stability, which can be enhanced through targeted balance and proprioceptive training. Recent studies show measurable improvements after structured balance programs. Frontiers

• Increase mobility and comfort for everyday activities such as getting in/out of cars, navigating steps, or enjoying active play.

Balanced movement supports long-term soundness and helps dogs of all ages move with less effort and more joy.

Safety First: Warm up and Watch for signals

Before any stretching or movement session:

1. Warm up for 5–10 minutes with a gentle walk or slow sniffari to increase blood flow. This reduces the risk of overstretching cold muscles.
2. Use low-intensity, short sessions. Starting with multiple 2–5 minute mini-sessions are better than a single long one.
3. Know your dog’s limits. Look for relaxed body language: soft eyes, loose mouth, wagging tail, and willingness to participate. Stop or back off if you see tension, repeated yawning, lip-licking, freezing, or attempts to move away.
4. Avoid forcing positions. Stretching should be gentle and voluntary. If your dog resists, make the exercise easier or try another movement.

When in doubt about a dog with prior injuries, consult a veterinary rehab professional before beginning new stretching or balance work. 

The Play → Learn → Connect approach to stretching

PLAY: make stretches fun and voluntary

Turn stretches into games so your dog chooses to move. Use high-value treats, calm praise, and short play rewards to keep things positive.

Sample playful prompts:

• “Paws up!” Encourage a front paw (or both) on a low, stable object (step, curb, or bench) then reward.
• Slow turns/“spins” Ask for a relaxed spin left then right; reward each successful, calm rotation.
• Find the scent Hide a treat slightly forward or sideways to encourage a gentle reach and stretch of a particular side.

These “games” build willingness and positive associations with slow, intentional movement.

LEARN: teach balance and symmetry with deliberate drills

Focus on left/right repetition and controlled range of motion. The goal is even practice on both sides each session.

Research and clinical experience show that proprioceptive and balance training improves postural control, especially when exercises are guided and progressed thoughtfully.
CONNECT: build trust through gentle, partnered movement

Every drill should end with a positive connection: petting, a favorite toy, or a quick play burst. Celebrate successes and be the calm, predictable leader your dog looks to for safety. These shared moments of success deepen the handler-dog bond and motivate future practice.

Sample 8-minute “Stretch & Reset” session (do 3–5 times per week)

1. Warm up (2–3 minutes): slow walk + sniffing.
2. Paws Up (both sides) 3 reps up, 3 reps down
3. Hind Paw Target / Step-up 3 reps up, 3 reps down
4. Over / Under sequence 4 slow passes total (2 over, 2 under)
5. Hand Target Stretches Turn to the left, turn to the right
6. Figure-8 weave 4 passes (2 each direction).
7. Side Step Up 3 reps up, 3 reps down
8. Short stand on wobble platform 2 holds of 3–5 seconds.
9. Lean Forward / Backward
10. Treats Up / Treats Down

Don’t forget to cool down & connect (1 minute)

Gentle petting, slow breathing, and a calm treat.

Adjust time and reps to your dog’s fitness level. Short, consistent practice yields better results than occasional long sessions.

Signs of progress

• Dog holds positions longer and with less wobble.
• Fewer avoidance behaviors and quicker willingness to participate.
• Improved ease getting in/out of the car, up stairs, or balancing on uneven ground.
• More fluid turns and fewer quick, awkward corrections while moving.

If you notice persistent asymmetry, sudden limping, or pain signals, pause the program and contact your veterinarian or a certified canine rehabilitation professional.

Tools & gear (use these safely)

• Low, stable platforms (curbs, sturdy benches)
• K9FITbone or low step blocks, pillows or small cushions
• Soft balance pads or cushions for later progressions (use on low heights)
• Non-slip surface or mat for traction

Never use unstable equipment for dogs new to balance work. Progress slowly and keep a hand near the dog until they are confident. A wobble board or wiggly surface can be used for dogs who have done balance work previously.

Want a bit more info about Canine Yoga?

Check out my Yoga Minute Videos on YouTube

• Yogo Minute 1 - Yoga Mat Surfaces, Water, Treats & Hand Targets

• Yoga Minute 2 - Stretching the Neck Up/Down, Lean Forward

• Yoga Minute 3 -  Stretching the Back with Raised Surface

Final thoughts

“Stretch & Reset” is about more than touching paws and poses. Canine yoga about teaching your dog to use both sides of their body equally, improving comfort and movement for life. With short, regular sessions that prioritize safety, you’ll help your dog gain flexibility, confidence, and a more balanced way of moving.

The Power of Teamwork

The Power of Teamwork! 

How Pattern Games and Rehearsed Routines Build Stronger Dog-Human Partnerships

When we bring a dog into our lives, we don’t just get a companion, we gain a teammate. But teamwork doesn’t magically happen. It grows from consistent practice, clear communication, and shared experiences.

That’s where pattern games and rehearsed routines come in. These simple strategies transform everyday moments into powerful opportunities to Play, Learn, and Connect with your dog.

Play: Turning Training Into a Game

Pattern games are short, predictable exercises that feel like play for your dog. The repetition provides comfort and clarity, while the fun builds enthusiasm.

Dogs thrive when they know the rules of the game.

Rehearsed patterns keep things lighthearted instead of stressful.

Play motivates dogs to want to work with us, not just for rewards, but because it’s fun.

Check out this "Go Around" Game! 

When you make learning playful, you’re not just teaching skills, you’re creating moments of joy that your dog associates with being on your team.

Learn: Building Skills Through Predictability

Rehearsed routines give your dog a reliable “map” for what comes next. This predictability reduces stress and makes it easier to succeed, even in distracting environments.

For example: A “loose leash routine” teaches your dog what to do when you clip on the leash.

A “doorway routine” helps your dog calmly wait before moving forward.

A “focus game” pattern gives your dog something to rely on when distractions appear.

Check out this Heelzone Game to help your dog learn to find heel.

Each time your dog practices these routines, they’re learning valuable life skills and building trust in you as their guide.

Connect: Growing as a Team

When play and learning overlap, you build true connection. This isn’t about control, it’s about teamwork. Your dog learns that:

--You are predictable and safe.

--Working with you leads to good things.

--You’re a reliable partner in any situation.

Check out Belle's Warm Up Routine that helps us get focused.

Connection grows strongest when training is fun, consistent, and rewarding for both of you. With pattern games and routines, you’re not just teaching obedience, you’re building a partnership where your dog wants to work with you.

Bringing It All Together

The Power of Teamwork is built through small, consistent steps. Every time you practice a pattern game or routine, you’re reinforcing three pillars:

🎮 Play:  Keeps training fun and engaging.

📚 Learn:  Gives your dog confidence through predictability.

💙 Connect:  Strengthens the bond that makes you a true team.

✨ Try adding one new pattern game this week, and notice how it changes the way you and your dog move together.

Because when you Play, Learn, and Connect, teamwork isn’t just a training goal, it a lifestyle with your dog.

👉 Want to dive deeper? Join our Play, Learn, Connect Facebook Group where we share challenges, videos, and ideas to help you and your dog build stronger teamwork every day.

Want more fun, game-based strategies for teaching your puppy manners?

 Check out our Play With a Purpose E-Book that is packed with simple games to build impulse control, focus, and cooperation (without the pain and frustration!).

Bitey Puppy -Taking Treats!

 

🍪 Ouch! The Treat-Taking Struggle Is Real

You’ve got the treat ready.
Your puppy’s eyes lock in like a laser.
You reach down to deliver it…

💥 CHOMP! Tiny teeth graze your fingers.
💥 OUCH! Your hand gets scratched by those sharp little puppy claws.
💥 YIKES! You spill the treats, and your puppy scrambles around like they just won the lottery.

At that moment, you might be thinking:
“Why am I even doing this?”
“Maybe I should stop using treats altogether.”
“Training is supposed to be fun… this just hurts!”

And you’re right—getting nipped during training isn’t fun. But here’s the thing: the problem isn’t the treats. It’s how they’re delivered.

🐾 Tips for Treat Delivery Without the Ouch

✅ Flat-hand delivery – Present treats on the flat of your palm (like you’re feeding a horse). No more pinched fingers!

✅ Deliver below the nose – Instead of dangling the treat above your pup’s face (which encourages leaping), move your hand slightly down and forward, so your puppy naturally stays grounded.

✅ Strategic floor placement – Drop or place treats on the ground in a calm pattern to encourage sniffing and settling, instead of bouncing and grabbing.

✅ Play the Zen Hand Game – Hold a fistful of treats. Only open your hand when the puppy stops pawing, nudging, or nipping. Calm = access.

✅ Try “It’s Yer Choice” – Place treats in your hand (or on the floor, covered). Let your puppy investigate, but only reward when they move back and show patience. This game teaches impulse control in a fun, rewarding way.

💡 Here’s the Truth:

When you shift from “constant chaos” to thoughtful delivery and games that reward patience, you transform your training sessions. Suddenly, your puppy isn’t a flying missile! They’re learning calm focus and polite manners.

And training feels good again. For both of you. ❤️

👉 Want more fun, game-based strategies for teaching your puppy manners?
Check out our Play With a Purpose E-Book that is packed with simple games to build impulse control, focus, and cooperation (without the pain and frustration!).

Join My Mini-Workshop!

If puppy nipping is disrupting your home, I’d love to support you.

🐾 Bite-Free Play: A 3-Part Puppy Nipping Workshop
📅 September 23rd–25th
⏰ Three short sessions (10–15 minutes each)

You’ll learn how to:
✅ Calm the chaos with “freeze & redirect”
✅ Replace nips with playful alternatives
✅ Build your pup’s emotional regulation skills

Each session is packed with simple exercises, fun games, and take-home challenges to practice with your puppy.

Sign Up For Bite Sized Lessons Here!