When working with our dogs, we want to teach them new skills, build their confidence, and have fun together. Dogs aren't robots, and even if we think we're going into a regular training session, sometimes they can get nervous or spooked. But why does your dog get scared while you're training?

If you have a fearful or anxious dog, you might think competitive dog sports are out of the question. After all, if unfamiliar people, dogs, and/or environments overwhelm your dog, how can you train him to participate, let alone compete, successfully? However, when it comes to agility, the very process of training might be just […]

Every dog is different, even when it comes to training. What works for one might not work for another. Thankfully, there are many ways to teach a new behavior. For example, you might try lure and reward training where you lead your dog into the desired behavior with a treat lure. Or you can capture a behavior by rewarding […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="2020"] May Trying to simplify Impacts of Anthropomorphism April What is a working dog? Theory and practicality (a short review) How training frequency impacts learning March Clickers, Verbal Markers, and Treats January Citizen Science Understanding operant conditioning without physical control [/accordion_panel] [/accordion] [accordion] [accordion_panel title="2019"] December Understanding reinforcement in detection dogs October Resilience […]

For the happiest, most well-adjusted dogs, learning never ends. The AKC GoodDog! Helpline is here for you and your dog every step of the way. Training your dog during COVID-19 can be difficult without access to normal training classes. That’s why we’re here to help you virtually. The AKC GoodDog! Helpline (GDH) is a live telephone subscription service […]

Indoor dog training helps keep your dog engaged and active if you're stuck inside. Here are ways to make indoor dog training work for you and your dog.

Training your dog during COVID-19 can be difficult without access to normal training classes. That’s why we’re here to help you virtually. The AKC GoodDog! Helpline (GDH) is a live telephone subscription service that offers training advice to new puppy owners. The helpline trainers have been giving helpful advice to new puppy owners for more […]

Housebreaking, house-training, or potty training-- no matter what you call it, all new dog owners want to teach their new puppy not to mess inside their new home. The best way to achieve this goal is by establishing a timeline to follow, and sticking to it. While you're adhering to your timeline, it helps to firmly establish […]

Put Your Dog’s Nose to Work in the Fun Sport of Tracking This issue’s training tip is brought to us by Sue Kotlarek of Romulus, Michigan. Sue has had great success in a variety of dog sports with her two rescue mixed-breeds, including the sport of AKC Tracking. Her All-American, Rodger Rowbinawitz UD GO VER […]

Did you know your dog can earn titles for showing off fun tricks? In fact, at the top level of AKC Trick Dog — AKC Trick Dog Elite Performer — you and your dog are required to perform a routine of tricks strung together into a story or script using at least five props. But do the […]