Benefits of Barrier Training

I tweeted this pic of my dogs a few minutes ago:

Benefits of barrier training. Dogs can chill out of the painter's way. twitter.com/caninestein/st…
— Stephanie Colman (@caninestein) August 14, 2012

Watching my dogs lie calmly behind the gate reminded me of what a great skill this is.  Yes, I could've crated them, but my apartment is small so I only keep one crate set up, and using the gate gives them the freedom to mill around in the hallway, bathroom and bedroom.  That's got to be more interesting than sitting in a crate.

Taking the time to teach various life skills (such as the ability to be confined) really helps make life less stressful for everyone.  When it comes to confinement, I think it's good to have options.  If you've already crate trained your dog, look around at where else you might be able to create dog-safe zones that provide a bit more space, or at the very least, an alternative to crating.

Keep Your Dog Safe in the Water During the Dog Days of Summer!

Safe Swimming for Dogs!

The kind, dog-loving folks over at Whole Dog Journal were nice enough to offer my recent feature on water safety for dogs as a full access article - no subscription needed!  (Click "Safe Swimming for Dogs!" to be directed to the article.)  As you and your dogs try and stay cool during the Dog Days of Summer, be sure to stay safe!  AND, if you're in the Los Angeles area, and would like some help getting your dog used to the water or to perfect his paddle technique, I can help with that!

P.S. The pic is my dog, Quiz.  We recently spent a few days in Big Bear Lake.  It's a dog's paradise up there... hiking AND water play, all right outside your cabin door!