For many dog owners in Pittsburgh, a well-kept yard is more than just curb appeal—it’s a space for relaxation, play, and time with your pup. But when your dog is determined to dig holes throughout the lawn, that peaceful outdoor time can quickly turn into frustration. While digging is a natural behavior in dogs, excessive or targeted digging can be a sign of deeper behavioral issues, especially in dogs with territorial tendencies.

At Spitze K9 in Bridgeville, we regularly work with dog owners who are struggling to stop their dogs from digging. Whether it’s tearing up the flower beds or clawing under the fence whenever a neighbor’s dog walks by, we understand the behavior—and how to correct it using proven dog training methods. In this article, we’ll break down why dogs dig, how to assess the behavior, and what steps you can take, including the benefits of in home dog training to help stop your dog from digging for good.

Why Dogs Dig in the First Place

Dogs dig for a variety of reasons—some instinctual, some behavioral. Before you can stop your dog from digging, it’s important to understand why it’s happening.

Common Reasons Dogs Dig:

Boredom or excess energy: Digging is a way for dogs to entertain themselves when they don’t have enough mental or physical stimulation.

Escape attempts: Dogs may dig under fences if they’re trying to get out—whether that’s to chase another animal, greet a neighbor’s dog, or just explore.

Comfort-seeking: Especially in hot weather, dogs may dig to create a cooler spot to lie down.

Hunting/prey drive: Some dogs dig in search of animals like moles or insects in the soil.

Anxiety or stress: Dogs with separation anxiety or general stress may resort to digging as a coping mechanism.

For dogs that are territorially aggressive or reactive, digging often has an emotional trigger. They may dig when they sense other animals near their territory, feel overstimulated by activity on the other side of the fence, or feel the need to “guard” their space.

Watch First, Correct Second: Observing the Behavior

The first step to solving any behavioral issue is observation. Where is your dog digging? When does it happen? Is it in response to a specific trigger—like the mail carrier walking by or another dog being outside?

By identifying patterns in your dog’s behavior, you can start to understand the root cause. For example, a dog who consistently digs along the perimeter of the fence may be reacting to outside stimuli and trying to assert territorial dominance. A dog that digs only when left alone might be expressing separation anxiety or boredom.

Look for other signs too:

• Pacing along the fence line
• Barking or growling while digging
• Increased alertness when people or animals are near the yard

If any of these behaviors sound familiar, it may be time to shift your focus from just stopping the digging to addressing the underlying behavioral issue—especially if it involves territorial aggression.

Practical Techniques to Stop Your Dog from Digging

Once you’ve determined the likely causes of the digging, you can begin implementing strategies to redirect or reduce the behavior. Here are several trainer-approved approaches:

1. Designate a Digging Zone

Rather than try to eliminate the behavior altogether, some dogs benefit from having a place where they are allowed to dig. You can set up a sandbox or a sectioned-off area of your yard and bury toys or treats there to encourage digging in that spot. Praise your dog when they use the right area.

2. Provide More Mental Stimulation

Dogs that dig out of boredom often respond well to enrichment. Puzzle toys, scent games, and structured playtime can all help meet your dog’s mental needs. Consider rotating toys regularly to keep things interesting.

3. Increase Exercise

A tired dog is a less destructive dog. Boost your dog’s daily activity through walks, runs, agility exercises, or structured fetch games. If your dog is reactive or aggressive, work with a trainer to make exercise safe and controlled.

4. Use Landscaping and Deterrents

If your dog always digs in specific areas, you can deter them with physical barriers (like rocks or garden fencing), scents they dislike (such as citrus peels), or motion-activated sprinklers. However, this only works as a short-term solution if the underlying drive isn’t addressed.

5. Supervise Yard Time

Until the digging is under control, supervised outdoor time can help interrupt and redirect the behavior in real time. Keep a leash or long line attached during yard time if needed to maintain control.

When Digging Is a Symptom of Deeper Behavior Issues

For dogs with aggression, reactivity, or territorial behavior, digging is often just one piece of a larger puzzle. These dogs may feel a need to patrol their yard, bark at passersby, or guard certain spaces. In these cases, the solution isn’t just more toys or barriers—it’s structured training that teaches the dog how to cope with stimulation and control their impulses.

That’s where in home dog training makes a difference.

Why In Home Dog Training Works

Training your dog at home, in the environment where the behavior is happening, gives you a much better shot at lasting success. At Spitze K9, we offer in home dog training for Pittsburgh-area families because it allows us to see the behavior firsthand and tailor solutions to your dog’s specific needs.

In cases of digging linked to territorial behavior, we focus on:

Impulse control: Teaching the dog to resist reacting to triggers like passing people or animals

Place training: Creating a designated calm zone your dog learns to go to on command

Threshold control: Helping your dog learn calm behavior near doors, fences, and windows

Redirection: Teaching appropriate alternatives to reactive or digging behavior

This kind of focused behavior modification often leads to better, longer-lasting results than general obedience classes because it addresses the “why” behind the behavior—not just the surface-level actions.

When to Call in a Professional Trainer

You don’t have to wait until your dog has destroyed your lawn or escaped under the fence to ask for help. If your dog’s digging feels excessive, emotionally charged, or connected to reactivity or aggression, it’s a good idea to consult a professional.

At Spitze K9, our trainers are experienced in working with behaviorally complex dogs. We know that each dog is different, and we approach training with patience, structure, and clarity. Whether you’re dealing with a new puppy who’s learning boundaries or a reactive adult dog with a long history of digging and guarding behavior, we’ll meet you where you are.

Digging Isn’t Just a Nuisance, It’s a Message

If your dog is digging holes in your yard, it’s not just about mess or inconvenience. It’s a form of communication. Your dog is telling you they’re bored, anxious, over-stimulated or maybe even scared.

Instead of just punishing the behavior or trying quick fixes, take the opportunity to look deeper. With observation, understanding, and a clear training plan, you can stop your dog from digging. And if you need support, we’re here to help.

Get Help with Digging, Reactivity, and More

Spitze K9 offers in home dog training services across Pittsburgh and surrounding areas like Bridgeville, tailored to dogs with behavior issues—including territorial aggression, anxiety, and destructive behaviors like digging.

If you’re ready to stop your dog from digging and build a more peaceful home environment, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you turn frustration into progress, right in your own backyard.

If your dog barks fiercely at the mail carrier, growls when guests arrive, or guards the front door like it’s their job, you may be dealing with territorial aggression. This behavior can be deeply stressful for dog owners especially when it starts to interfere with everyday life.

Fortunately, territorial aggression is manageable with the right approach. At Spitze K9, a trusted source for exemplary dog training in Pittsburgh, we work with many families whose dogs are struggling with these instincts. With the right tools, techniques, and professional guidance, your dog can learn to feel more secure and less reactive in their home environment.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what territorial aggression really means, why it happens, and how professional territorial dog training can help you and your dog live more peacefully.

What Is Territorial Aggression?

Territorial aggression is a type of defensive behavior in which a dog reacts strongly when someone or something enters a space they consider their own. This could be your house, yard, car, or even the couch. Common signs include:

• Barking or growling at strangers near the home
• Charging at fences or windows
• Lunging when someone enters the room
• Guarding specific areas or objects

While it may seem like your dog is just being protective, this behavior can escalate without proper training. It can also stem from anxiety, lack of socialization, or inconsistent boundaries at home.

Understanding the root of territorial behavior is the first step in creating a plan to modify it. At Spitze K9, we start every case with a detailed assessment to uncover what’s fueling the aggression because every dog is different.

Why Dogs Exhibit Territorial Aggression

Territorial instincts are natural in dogs as they’ve been passed down from their ancestors, who needed to defend resources to survive. But in a modern household, this instinct can become disruptive or even dangerous if it’s not addressed.

There are several factors that can contribute to territorial aggression:

• Lack of early socialization: Dogs that haven’t been exposed to a variety of people, environments, and situations may feel overwhelmed or threatened when someone enters their space.
• Fear or insecurity: An anxious dog may use aggression as a coping mechanism to make a perceived threat go away.
• Inconsistent boundaries: If a dog is sometimes allowed to bark at the window or push past people at the door, they may believe it’s their responsibility to control who comes and goes.
• Reinforced behavior: If barking or lunging “works”—that is, if the stranger leaves—the dog learns that aggression gets results.

Whatever the cause, the behavior can be modified with proper territorial dog training. This usually involves a mix of behavior modification, obedience training, and environmental management.

Why Professional Training Matters

Managing a territorial dog on your own can be overwhelming. Without professional support, it’s easy to misinterpret your dog’s behavior or accidentally reinforce the wrong response.

That’s where professional dog training in Pittsburgh comes in. At Spitze K9, our trainers specialize in behavioral issues like territorial aggression. We develop customized training plans based on your dog’s temperament, history, and the specific challenges you’re facing.

Unmanaged territorial behavior poses risks—not just for visitors or strangers, but for you and your dog. Dogs that escalate their aggression can be difficult to control and may even be at risk for legal consequences if someone gets hurt.

Working with a professional helps ensure that training is safe, effective, and tailored to your dog’s needs. We also help you understand your dog’s body language, stress signals, and triggers—so you’re empowered to manage situations confidently.

Training Approaches That Work

At Spitze K9, we use a balanced, evidence-based approach to training territorial dogs. This means focusing on building trust, reducing reactivity, and teaching dogs how to behave appropriately in situations that used to trigger them.

Desensitization and Counterconditioning

These are two of the most important tools in territorial dog training:

• Desensitization involves exposing your dog to a trigger (like the doorbell or a stranger approaching the house) in a controlled, gradual way.
• Counterconditioning means changing your dog’s emotional response to that trigger. For example, instead of barking when someone walks past the window, your dog learns to expect a treat or praise when they stay calm.

Over time, your dog starts to associate visitors with positive outcomes rather than threats.

Obedience as a Foundation

Basic obedience plays a big role in helping territorial dogs. Teaching commands like “place,” “leave it,” or “stay” gives your dog structure and an alternative behavior when they feel reactive. It also strengthens the bond between you and your dog, so they learn to look to you for guidance instead of taking control of the situation.

Management Techniques

Training is essential, but so is managing the environment while your dog learns. This might include:

• Blocking window views to reduce barking at passersby
• Using gates to create distance from the front door
• Teaching guests how to interact with your dog in a calm, consistent way

With patience, practice, and the right support, most territorial dogs can learn to relax in their environment and respond more appropriately to visitors and changes in their space.

The Power of Board and Train Programs

Many dogs with moderate to severe territorial aggression can benefit from a dog board and train program in Pittsburgh with a reputable dog trainer like Spitze K9. Board and train programs can offer faster, more structured results in a controlled environment.

Here’s how it works: your dog stays at our facility for an intensive training program that focuses on their specific behavior challenges. During their stay, they receive:

Daily one-on-one training sessions

• Controlled exposure to triggers
• Structured socialization with people and dogs
• Consistent reinforcement of desired behaviors

This immersive approach allows our trainers to work more deeply with your dog without the distractions or inconsistencies of the home environment. Once the program is complete, we provide detailed transfer sessions to teach you how to maintain your dog’s progress at home.

Board and train can be especially helpful for dogs who are difficult to manage in the moment or for owners who are feeling overwhelmed by their dog’s behavior. It’s a supportive, results-driven option for dog owners in need of a reset.

What to Expect from Territorial Dog Training

It’s important to know that training territorial aggression is a process—it doesn’t happen overnight. Depending on your dog’s history and temperament, it may take weeks or months of consistent practice to see lasting change.

But progress is possible. Most owners begin to notice improvements in how their dog responds to visitors, noises, and unfamiliar situations within the first few weeks of structured training.

Owner involvement is also key. After formal training, especially in dog board and train Pittsburgh programs, ongoing reinforcement at home ensures that the new behavior sticks. We equip you with the knowledge, tools, and support to keep things on track.

Take the Next Step with Spitze K9

If you’re struggling with a dog who guards your home, growls at guests, or reacts strongly to movement outside, you’re not alone. Territorial aggression is common—but it doesn’t have to be permanent.

At Spitze K9, we specialize in dog training Pittsburgh dog owners can rely on. Whether you’re interested in one-on-one behavior sessions or a more immersive dog board and train Pittsburgh program, we’re here to help you and your dog move forward.

Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident companion.

In the world of dog ownership, dog training your furry friend is not just an exercise; it’s a fundamental in fostering a healthy, happy relationship between you and your pet. Yet, many dog owners find themselves questioning the trainability of their canines, especially when faced with challenges that seem impossible. This brings us to a crucial question: Is every dog trainable?

At Spitze K9, a leading dog training service in Pittsburgh, we’ve encountered numerous breeds, each with its unique personality, background, and set of challenges. Our experiences have allowed us to explore this question in depth, and through this article, we aim to provide valuable insights into the trainability of dogs.

Understanding Trainability

Trainability in dogs is a complex concept influenced by various factors, including breed, age, and past experiences. Initially, it might seem that certain breeds are more receptive to training due to their inherent traits.

For example, Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers are often celebrated for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them seemingly easier to train. However, this doesn’t mean that breeds perceived as stubborn or less intelligent, like Bulldogs or Beagles, aren’t trainable. You can also teach an old dog new tricks. Dogs are different than people because they are dogs, but not all categories of people learn the same way, and at the same rate. Some dogs may require different training methods than others, and this is how people and dogs are similar.

Certain dogs have a greater aptitude, or mindset for training others don’t. Learn about dog breeds that have a better response to training.

The Age of Your Dog

With their developing brains, puppies are often more moldable than older dogs. But older dogs bring their own advantages, such as the ability to focus for more extended periods. Past experiences, particularly for rescue dogs, can influence trainability. Dogs with negative experiences may require more patience and time to unlearn their fears.

Older dogs can also be affected by Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), which can impact their ability to learn new commands. This neurobehavioral disorder, similar to dementia, can affect dogs’ daily lives, including their trainability.

Understanding these factors is the first step in debunking the myth that some dogs can’t be trained. Every dog is trainable, but the approach and the timeline may vary.

Disabilities And Dog Training

One common question that arises when discussing dog trainability is whether dogs with disabilities can be trained. The answer is yes, but training methods may need to be altered. Depending on the disability, progress may be hindered.

Dogs with disabilities, such as blindness or deafness, are just as capable of learning and following commands as any other dog. In fact, they may have heightened senses and can pick up on visual or tactile cues more easily.

If the dog being trained is blind or deaf, getting their attention may be challenging. Blindness or deafness may require alternative training techniques, such as hand signals instead of verbal commands. But with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, even dogs with disabilities are capable of learning rules and acceptable behavior. Treats and patience go a long way.

Training A Dog With Physical Disabilities

Dogs with physical disabilities, such as missing limbs or mobility issues, may require some adjustments in training. For example, a dog with only three legs may need to learn how to balance and move differently than a four-legged dog.

Training A Dog With Emotional Disabilities

Similarly, dogs with emotional disabilities, such as anxiety or fearfulness, or extensive stress will benefit from gentle and patient training methods. If training is to be successful with this type of dog, they will need to be brough into a more relaxed frame of mind.

Evidence of Trainability

Our work at Spitze K9 has provided us with countless examples that underscore the trainability of all dogs. Through consistent training methods that address to each dog’s unique needs, we’ve seen remarkable transformations in many dogs. Whether it’s an older dog learning basic commands for the first time or a traumatized rescue dog gradually learning to trust humans, the potential for learning and growth is present in every canine.

Training Methods

The key to successful dog training lies in the method adopted. Positive reinforcement, which rewards good behavior with treats, praise, or play, has been shown to be highly effective across breeds and ages. Clicker training is a type of positive reinforcement that uses sound to mark the desired behavior and is another powerful tool in a trainer’s arsenal.

However, the most suitable training method depends on the dog’s individual personality and learning style. Some dogs may respond well to voice commands and gestures, while others may find treats more motivating. Flexibility and willingness to adapt are critical traits for any dog trainer.

Overcoming Challenges

Training challenges are inevitable, but they’re not insurmountable. Common issues like leash pulling, aggression, and incessant barking often stem from underlying problems such as fear, anxiety, or a lack of proper socialization with other dogs and people. Understanding the root cause is essential for effective training.

Patience, consistency, and setting realistic goals are fundamental to overcoming training challenges. Celebrating small victories can motivate both the dog and the trainer to keep progressing. Remember, setbacks are part of the process, not indicators of failure.

Work with Spitze K9 for Expert Dog Training

The question of whether every dog is trainable has a simple answer – yes. However, this doesn’t mean the path to training success is identical for all. Recognizing and respecting each dog’s individual needs, limitations, and potential is critical to unlocking their capability to learn and thrive. We offer dog training from basic to advanced obedience to board and train programs to ensure your training needs are met.

At Spitze K9 in Pittsburgh, we’re dedicated to helping every dog and owner achieve their training goals, fostering stronger, happier relationships along the way. If you’re ready to begin this rewarding journey, we invite you to reach out and discover how we can support your training needs.

Remember, patience, understanding, and love are your best tools in this endeavor. With the right approach, every dog can not only learn but also shine as a beloved, well-behaved member of your family.

Board and train programs have become increasingly popular for dog owners in recent years. These programs offer a comprehensive training experience for dogs, where they stay at a facility or with a professional trainer for an extended period of time.

What is a Board and Train Program?

A board and train program involves sending your dog to a facility or trainer’s home for a certain period of time, ranging from a few days to weeks. During this time, your dog will receive intensive, expert training and socialization in a structured environment.

Benefits of a Board and Train Program

1. Intensive Training Experience:
Board and train programs provide dogs with intensive training sessions throughout their stay. This allows them to quickly learn new skills and behaviors without any distractions from their usual environment.

2. Professional Guidance:
When your dog is enrolled in a board and train program, they will be under the supervision of a professional trainer who has experience working with various breeds and behaviors. This ensures that your dog receives personalized attention and guidance tailored to their specific needs.

3. Socialization:
Many board and train programs include group training sessions, which allow your dog to interact with other dogs in a controlled and supervised environment. This helps them learn how to properly socialize with other dogs and people, making them more well-rounded and confident.

4. Faster Results:
Since the training is conducted consistently over an extended period of time, you can expect faster results compared to traditional training methods where you have shorter but more frequent sessions. Board and train programs also use positive reinforcement techniques, which have been proven to be more effective in training dogs.

5. Addressing Behavioral Issues:
If your dog has any behavioral issues, such as aggression or anxiety, a board and train program can help address these problems. Trainers are experienced in identifying the root cause of the behavior and implementing techniques to correct it. This can result in a happier and better-behaved dog, without sacrificing your bond with your dog.

6. Convenience:
Board and train programs offer convenience for busy pet owners who may not have the time or resources to dedicate to traditional training methods. Your dog will receive all necessary training while you go about your daily routine, making it easier for you to incorporate their learning into your lifestyle.

7. Continued Support:
Many board and train programs also offer continued support after the initial training period is complete. This can include follow-up sessions, phone consultations, and access to online resources for ongoing training and support.

8. Tailored Training:
Each board and train program is tailored to fit the individual needs of your dog. Trainers will assess your dog’s behavior and create a personalized training plan that addresses their specific issues and goals.

Is a Board and Train Program Right for My Dog?

While board and train programs can be incredibly beneficial, they may not be the best fit for every dog. It’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs and personality before enrolling them in a program.

Some factors to consider include:

– Age: Board and train programs are typically recommended for dogs over six months old who have completed their basic vaccinations.
– Behavioral issues: If your dog has severe behavioral issues such as aggression or anxiety, a board and train program may be a good option as it allows for intensive training in a controlled environment.
– Socialization: If your dog struggles with socialization, a board and train program can provide opportunities for them to interact with other dogs and humans in a structured setting.
– Health concerns: Dogs with medical conditions or special needs may benefit from a board and train program where trainers can monitor their health and adjust the training accordingly.
– Owner’s availability: Board and train programs require your dog to be away from home for an extended period of time. Make sure you are comfortable with being separated from your dog for that duration.

How to Choose the Right Board and Train Facility for Your Dog

Board and train programs have become a popular option for dog owners looking to improve their dog’s behavior and obedience. These programs involve leaving your dog with a professional trainer for a period of time, during which they will receive intensive training.

While this can be an effective way to address behavioral issues, it is important to carefully consider the facility you choose for your furry friend.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when selecting a board and train facility:

1. Trainer Qualifications
The most crucial aspect of any board and train program is the expertise of the trainer. Before enrolling your dog in a program, research the qualifications of the trainers at the facility. Look for certifications or accreditations from reputable organizations such as The Association of Professional Dog Trainers or The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.

2. Training Techniques
It is important to understand the training techniques that will be used on your dog while they are in a board and train program. Make sure the facility uses positive reinforcement methods rather than punishment-based techniques. This will ensure that your dog is trained using humane and effective methods that promote trust and cooperation between you and your pet.

3. Facility Standards
The environment where your dog will be staying during their training is also crucial. Visit the facility in person to assess its cleanliness, safety measures, and overall condition. Ask about the daily routine for the dogs, including exercise, socialization, and rest periods.

4. Customized Programs
Every dog is unique and has different needs and abilities. A good board and train facility will offer customized training programs that cater to your dog’s specific needs. They should also be open to discussing any concerns or goals you have for your dog’s training.

5. Communication
Effective communication is essential for a successful board and train program. Make sure the facility provides regular updates on your dog’s progress, including videos and photos if possible. You should also feel comfortable reaching out with any questions or concerns you may have during this time.

6. Follow-up Support
Once your dog has completed their board and train program, it is crucial to continue reinforcing their training at home. Choose a facility that offers follow-up support, such as private sessions or group classes, to ensure a smooth transition back into your home and daily routine.

Why You Can Entrust Your Dog to Spitze K9

At Spitze K9, we understand that leaving your beloved pup in the hands of strangers can be nerve-wracking. That’s why we strive to provide top-notch care and training for each dog that comes through our facility.

Our experienced canine trainers offer regular updates and follow-up support to ensure continued success once your dog returns home.

Plus, our state-of-the-art facility is designed with your dog’s comfort and safety in mind. With spacious, well-maintained indoor and outdoor areas, your pup will have plenty of room to play, train, and relax while in our care.

Don’t settle for subpar training or facilities when it comes to your furry best friend. Trust us to provide the best care and training for your pup at our board and train facility in Pittsburgh so you can have peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.

Contact us today to get started!

Many dog trainers in Pittsburgh position themselves as the best dog trainers around. They may be top-tier, but with everyone claiming to be the best, how do you know what makes a dog trainer good? Here are some qualities we decided are important to look for when finding someone to train your furry friend.

A Good Dog Trainer Understands All Dogs Are Different

While different breeds of dogs show some consistency in areas of intelligence or other traits, they are all very different. Border collies are known for their intelligence and receptiveness to complex dog training, but there are always exceptions. A good trainer doesn’t judge a book by its cover and understands that no two dogs are exactly alike.  Even if the canine in question is intelligent, there is no guarantee that it learns the same way as another dog of a similar pedigree. Dog trainers who are patient and have the ability to troubleshoot a dog’s behavior can produce a training atmosphere that enables stupid, spazzy, intelligent, calm, young, and old dogs to learn new tricks.

A Good Dog Trainer Has Patience

Everyone has days when stress gets to them more than usual, but patience cannot be understated when training a dog. Not every training session is going to go smoothly at first. Dogs, like people, have different personalities and aptitudes. When a dog trainer trains dog after dog after dog, they get accustomed to various responses. If the trainer works with three dogs in a row that respond quickly to training, and the fourth doesn’t seem to get it, they need the patience to adapt, see it through, and create a learning environment that works for that dog specifically, rather than get frustrated and not give that dog the attention it deserves. Even dogs that are quicker to respond to training require a patient dog trainer who is willing to repeat the same commands and reinforcements until the dog sees the pattern.

A Good Dog Trainer Is Consistent

Dogs learn through repetition. This means consistent responses to their behavior, predictable commands to bring out that behavior, and reinforcement that does not deviate.  Not a machine-like consistency that is cold and unforgiving but a clear pattern that dogs can identify and act upon without becoming confused. The dog trainers’ expectations should be explicit and patient, and if something isn’t working at first, they need to know the right time to change their approach and not switch it up flippantly. They need to get to know your dog and learn to communicate with them in a way they can understand to make their training effective.

A Good Dog Trainer Communicates Effectively…

With The Dog

Dogs mostly communicate through body language. Though they can understand simple commands, unfortunately, dogs cannot use words to convey thoughts, needs, and intentions.  A good dog trainer can interpret your dog’s body language and train them accordingly. The positioning of your dog’s head, ears, tail, and even hair (among other cues) can be helpful to a discerning dog trainer. When your dog trainer communicates with your dog, it involves more than just verbal cues to elicit the desired response. Rewards are a form of communication that every dog understands in varying degrees and are a great motivator to do what is requested. Hand signals are another way trainers can communicate with your dog.

With The Owner

While the ability of the trainer to communicate with your dog is of utmost importance, they must also communicate with you as the owner. Not only during the training process to show progress and further needs but after the training is complete, they need to teach you how to reinforce and maintain the behavior your dog has learned. If you return home, and you have not been taught how to keep your dog on its best behavior properly, and the importance of doing so has not been impressed upon you, then your dog is likely to regress, and you should seek another trainer. Spitze K9 provides ongoing communication in a private group, even after completing training, to help you and your dog.

A Good Dog Trainer Has A Relationship With Your Dog

In order to understand why your dog is behaving the way it is, and to increase the likelihood that it responds well to training, a good dog trainer forms a connection with your dog. When the trainer meets the trainee, they are strangers at first. Learning becomes easier when the walls come down, a bond is in place, and trust has been established. Teaching is more effective when it comes from someone you look up to and respect than it is from an unknown entity that’s hitting you in the face with a book and telling you there is a test tomorrow. Easing the dog’s anxieties or fears is only part of it. Your trainer needs to be able to empathize with your dog and show compassion but still know when to discipline them or discourage certain behaviors.

A Good Dog Trainer Has Training AND Experience

A good dog trainer has been trained themself! Everyone has to start somewhere whether it is simply the love of dogs or the accidental discovery of a natural gift. At some point to improve their effectiveness, understanding of fundamentals, or simply to fill in the gaps of their knowledge, a good trainer will have received an education from someone who knows more and has more experience.  Regardless of their own discoveries, it is important to get different perspectives and methods from another source. You don’t know what you don’t know.  On the other side of the collar, you shouldn’t take your dog to a trainer who doesn’t have experience because a training session doesnt always play out the way it does in a book. Much like a dog being trained, the trainer needs time and repetition to be effective.

A Good Dog Trainer Exhibits Professionalism

During the consultation, you should feel good about leaving your dog with the trainer or having them come back to your house for an in-home training session. They should present themselves with integrity and be courteous. A good dog trainer has high ethical standards for dealing with humans and dogs. Their training methods should be humane, and they should set and live up to realistic, tangible expectations.

A Good Dog Trainer Is Passionate About Training

Dog training requires dedication and passion. A trainer who trains dogs only for the paycheck and doesn’t have their heart in it may not be willing to put in the effort needed to turn challenging, undesired dog behaviors around and give you the tools to keep them going in the right direction. Everyone has bad days, but someone who thrives while teaching dogs can make a successful lifelong career and touch the lives of owners and dogs alike. Read the reviews they have received from other owners of dogs they have trained and see how they have performed in the past.

Dog Training With Spitze K9

At SpitzeK9 we bring passion, professionalism, experience, knowledge, consistency, and compassion to the table when we train your pet. Take a look at the training and accomplishments our organization has achieved over the years. If your dog is pulling on the leash, aggressive, not coming when called, jumping on people, or exhibiting any other undesirable behavior, bring them out to SpitzeK9! Call us today at 412-498-6635 or fill out a short form on our website!

While dogs are beloved pets, not all dog breeds are easy to train, which can be a massive source of stress for dog owners. Without basic commands and obedience, dogs can develop unwanted behaviors, such as destroying your belongings, pulling on the leash, or poorly socializing with people or other pets. While any dog can be trained by a qualified dog trainer some are predisposed to good behavior while others are not.

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