Here is my list of the top 5 commands for dogs based on my experience with the dogs I have worked with

1.   #5.            Sit – This is the easiest to teach and 99% of my clients have already taught it
2.   #4.            Heel – Always good to teach your dog how to walk on leash
3.   #3.            Come – Everyone wants recall with their dogs
4.   #2.            Leave it – Prevents dogs from picking things up
5.   #1.            Drop it/Out – Used not only for letting go of foreign objects but also for play

Question:  When I take my dog for a walk, her nose is constantly on the ground and when she sees another dog she will start yipping. What can I do?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

This is always a popular question for dog trainer but I think my answer might surprise you. 

Takeaways:

1. When is it okay
2. When is it not okay
3. Creating structure around it

Dog Fact of the week:     10 million pets are missing worldwide and less than 20% of them will be reunited with their owners.

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

It's one thing if your dog has certain skills, it's another if you know how to increase those skills into something else. Here is a great example on how you can do this with your dog. 

Takeaways:

1. Pick a skill that you want to increase
2. Create a pattern that’s easy to follow
3. Once the dog understands the pattern, add another step

Question: I’ve read that rawhides aren’t good for dogs, should I stop giving one to my dog?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

Patterns can emerge in different ways and once we are aware of patterns, it can lead to both positive and negative behaviors. Here is my take on how you can overcome those pesky negative patterns.

Takeaways:

1. Can be positive or negative
2. How to read unwanted patterns
3. Pinpoint where to get ahead of the mistake

Question: My dogs are constantly scanning the ground and our environment during our walks, is there a way to fix this?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

Prey drive is instinctual for dogs and in some cases it's quite prominent. 

Takeaways:

1. What is it?
2. How do we handle it?
3. Communication is key?

Question: How can I teach my dog to be calm when he’s always excited?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

Dealing with a fearful dog can be difficult, but we have to be VERY aware of our "touch" both on leash and off leash in the house. 

Takeaways:

1. Overpowering
2. Being too physical with the leash and collar
3. Taking the time to teach what we want – slowing down.

Question: How do I redirect my dog if he starts lunging at a dog he sees?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

Fear can debilitate dogs and it's not a pretty site. But we have a chance to help them through it and you might be surprised how.

Takeaways:

1. What does fear look like in dogs?
2. We nurture fear too much
3. We have to give direction during times of stress

Question: My dog just doesn’t seem to calm down in the house. We can go for a 3 mile walk and she still paces around, what should I do?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

Part 2 leads us into your guests coming into play and what their role should be, you might find my opinion very interesting.

Takeaways:

1. Your guests & your dogs
2. Instruct both guests and dog what to do
3. Make it clear and concise – use a note outside the door if needed

Listener Question:  What do you feel is the biggest mistake dog owners make with their dogs?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

In this episode we dive into the essential topic of "Doorway Diplomacy: Mastering Front Door Behaviors." The front door can be a common source of chaos and excitement for our canine companions, but with the right techniques, you can transform it into a zone of calm and control. 

1. Controlling the Space Around the Front Door:

   • We start by exploring effective methods to establish control over the area around the front door. By setting clear boundaries you can teach your dog to exhibit polite behaviors when guests arrive or when you need to leave the house. Learn how to communicate expectations and prevent door-related issues from occurring.

2. Practicing When You Don't Need It:

   • Prevention is better than cure, and this principle holds true when it comes to front door behaviors. We emphasize the importance of proactive training by practicing controlled door interactions even when there are no visitors. This preempts potential problems and helps your furry friend become comfortable with the desired behaviors before real-life scenarios arise.

3. What It Looks Like When Done Correctly:

   • Lastly, we paint a vivid picture of the ideal front door behavior. Discover the beauty of a dog who sits calmly, waits patiently, and refrains from jumping or rushing to the door. We illustrate the positive results that consistent and compassionate training can achieve, leading to a more peaceful and enjoyable entrance and exit experiences for both you and your dog.

Whether your dog tends to bark, jump, or get overly excited at the front door, this episode equips you with the necessary tools to transform these interactions into smooth and controlled experiences. Join us as we unlock the secrets of "Doorway Diplomacy" and enhance your dog's behavior at the front door, fostering a more harmonious home environment for everyone involved. 

Listener Question: We have a new puppy and people want to pet her but she gets excited and jumps on them. What can I do to teach her to stop jumping?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

In this engaging episode we delve into the intriguing world of "Situational Aggression" and we will explore the following key points:

1. What is Aggression?

   • We begin by unraveling this term and how it comes about, and define it.

2. Understanding Situational Aggression:

   • Our spotlight then falls on the specific concept of "Situational Aggression" – a fascinating aspect of canine behavior. We explore how certain situations or triggers can elicit aggressive responses in dogs.

3. How to Handle Situational Aggression:

   • First of all, if you are dealing with this I would seek out professional help. Keep things positive and work on what you want from your dog, and not what you don't want.

Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or a first-time puppy parent, this episode offers invaluable tools to create a happier and healthier bond with your four-legged friend. So, tune in and let's make your dog's world a more positive and confident one!

Listener Question: I’ve heard it’s better for dogs to meet off leash than on leash, is that true?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Join us as we explore the ins and outs of this powerful training tool, equipping you with the knowledge and techniques to utilize it effectively.

Segment 1: What is the Place Command? - We kick off the episode by providing a comprehensive understanding of the Place Command. Learn the foundational principles behind this training technique and how it establishes a designated spot for your dog to settle on command. 

Segment 2: Why should we use it? - Discover the multitude of advantages that come with incorporating the Place Command into your dog's training regimen. From fostering focus and self-control to creating boundaries and managing hyperactivity, we explore the compelling reasons why this command is an invaluable tool in shaping your dog's behavior. 

Segment 3: How to use it correctly - Building on the foundation laid in the previous segments, we provide practical guidance on implementing the Place Command correctly. 

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Listener Question: When my dog sees a strange dog, he crouches down to his belly and starts growling. Is there a way to fix this?

Join us as we delve into the three key takeaways that will revolutionize your understanding of your furry companion and pave the way for a fulfilling and harmonious relationship.

Dogs are born neutral - Prepare to challenge common misconceptions about canine behavior as we uncover the truth: dogs are born with a neutral disposition. We delve into the fascinating world of canine instincts and innate characteristics, helping you grasp the foundational concept that will empower you to unlock your dog's true potential.

Constant pressure makes them go back - Discover the profound impact of constant pressure on a dog's journey. We shed light on how external stressors, training methods, and environmental factors can influence a dog's behavior, causing them to retreat and revert to negative patterns.

Dog will then start to move forward - Prepare for a powerful revelation as we explore the pivotal moment when a dog begins to move forward and become reactive on their transformative journey. Drawing from real-life anecdotes and expert advice, we unveil the catalysts and techniques that facilitate progress, enabling your dog to embrace positive behaviors and unleash their true potential.

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of "Pendulum of Reactivity," where we navigate the intricate nuances of canine behavior, offering practical guidance and transformative insights that will revolutionize the way you train and understand your beloved four-legged companion.

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Many dog owners have this issue with their dogs, but what can we do about it?

Takeaways:

1. Why dogs do this
2. What does the leash represent to the dog
3. How to fix it

Question: When my dog is sitting in my lap and my husband approaches me my dog growls at him, what should I do?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

It's important that we keep those good vibes going while training our dogs. Ending a good note or notes will help your next session.

Takeaways:

1. Where this comes from
2. What it means to the dog
3. Understanding your dog’s stamina, both mental and physical

Question: Do dogs tear things apart when the owner leaves the home because they are mad at their owner?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

When we try a new technique and fail often times we just give up. But there is a different way of looking at that failure.

Takeaways:

1. How to approach your dog doing something wrong
2. What steps to understand it
3. How to move forward with it

Question:  Will neutering my male dog take away his aggression?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

There are times when we can address unwanted behaviors in the moment. 

Takeaways:

1. Understanding what the dog sees
2. The pattern that gets created
3. How to create a new pattern

Listener Question: Will recall with my dog ever be 100%?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

I really enjoyed chatting with Michael about how our mindfulness can help our dog's behave better. Once we understand how we are feeling is when we can turn our attention to our dogs. 

Takeaways:

1. Clearing the "cloud" that our dog's see around us
2. Patterns keep us comfortable but don't allow us to grow
3. Live in the moment

Michael's Website

Intro/Outro Music

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

On today's episode of the podcast I sit down with Jill Viggiani from MotoDog Training. We discussed the importance of cooperative play with your dog, making your dog somebody, and what it truly means when your dog is distracted. 

https://motodogtraining.com/

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

The Cornerstone Collection - Ivan Balabanov

Dogs that bolt through doors have learned that they need speed to get through the door, but they learned that speed from someone, guess who?

Takeaways:

1. How dogs keep moving faster than us
2. Car door/front door
3. How to slow it down      

Question: Will recall with my dog ever be 100% perfect?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

Most dog owners that I come across don't walk with purpose. Listening to this episode will give you insight into how you can make that change. 

Takeaways:

1. What does this mean?
2. We hesitate a lot when walking our dogs
3. We don’t focus on what we want

Question: My dog suddenly won’t sleep through the night in her crate. She will wake up around 2 and doesn’t have to go to the bathroom. What can I do?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Canine Fusion Workshop

Ian's clients discussed various dog training challenges, including River's stretching and barking, Tali's puppy training progress, and strategies for improving leash handling. TiffianyAnn shared her experience at the Albuquerque balloon fest with her dog Vader, emphasizing the importance of recognizing a dog's needs and boundaries in busy environments.

Ian highlighted the significance of patience and understanding when addressing fearful behaviors, especially in rescue dogs, and provided actionable advice on managing dogs' expectations during mealtime. The group also explored how to communicate a dog's discomfort with strangers and discussed the importance of maintaining personal space during meal preparation.

Each participant was assigned next steps to continue improving their dogs' training and behaviors, fostering accountability within the group and enhancing overall outcomes.

For more information on Ian's Coaching Lab, click HERE

Be sure to use promo code "LAB" and get 50% off your first month. 

10/8/24 Coaching Lab Call

In this episode titled Breakfast for Your Dog, Ian discusses the reasons why some dogs wake their owners up and what this behavior means from the dog's perspective. He also covers when to feed your dog breakfast, and answers a listener's question about which dog training tools are best to avoid.

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

For more information on the Coaching Lab, click HERE

Many dog owners struggle with trying to get their dogs inside. Sometimes you get that look from your dog as they "think" about what they should do. Here is how I handle it.

Takeaways:

1. Look at it from your dog’s view
2. What does inside represent
3. How to re-work this

Question: What should I do about my Chihuahua that stops walking while I’m taking her for a walk. I pick her up and go home but I don’t want to do that forever.

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Cynology Warehouse Coupon Code VERMONT

Join Ian's Private Coaching Group

Canine Initiative

Lunging at cars can be a dangerous situation and in this episode I will share with you how to work on it. 

Takeaways:

1. What is lunging?

2. Why do dogs react this way?

3. How to slow things down to work on it.

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Angela has fostered over 1,000 dogs in the last 10 years.  She is an expert on the subject and she has some wonderful advice for those of you interested in becoming a foster. 

Takeaways:

1. How to choose a compatible dog to foster

2. How to welcome your foster into the home

3. How to say goodbye to your foster on adoption day

www.freetobe.store

Instagram: @deservingdogs

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

There is a right and wrong way to allow dogs on the furniture.  In this episode you will learn the appropriate way to make it work for you.

Takeaway:

1. What furniture is included?

2. What is your dog's behavior?

3. You decide!

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

When it comes to lifestyle training there isn't anyone better to talk to than Jojo.  She is going to be traveling the country in her RV and training her dogs at the same time. 

Takeaways:

1. How long do I have to train my dog?

2. My dog is still making mistakes

3. Consistency & Variety

Instagram @jo_and_jaxx

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

We have all been there with puppy biting, those teeth are like needles.  We have to remember that this is a natural behavior for puppies.  It's our job to fulfill and challenge them on a daily basis.

Takeaways:

1. Puppies put everything in their mouths

2. Give them something to chew on

3. Tethering can help deter biting

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

We finally dive into the HUGE subject of Balance on this podcast.  Brad Bevill has a wonderful way of explaining this so ALL dog owners can understand it. 

https://bevilldogbehavior.com/

Takeaways:

1. The 4 Components

2. What is Love?

3. Creating Order

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Are you guilty of spelling "Walk" or "Treat" so your dog doesn't get excited?  There are ways to get through these behaviors but you have to build the pattern. 

Takeaway:

1. Why we spell words

2. Creating patterns

3. How to solve the problem of spelling

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Commercial Sound www.bensound.com

Jessica has experienced a wonderful journey that culminates in helping a TON of dogs every week.  She gives you a behind-the-scenes story of how a dog owner can become a dog trainer. 

Takeaways:

1. The journey

2. Hands on vs. textbook

3. The ultimate compliment

www.dogizone.com

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Every dog has varying degrees of drives and Brian sheds a light on how these drives makeup your dog.  He not only talks about the 3 main drives but also how to switch them. 

Takeaways:

1. What are the 3 drives?

2. Switching your dog's drives

3. Controlling/Fulfilling vs. suppressing drives

Brian's Info

The Balanced Dog

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Raise your hand if you have a dog that reacts to your tv.  I know you are out there and this episode will let you know why it's happening.

Takeaways:

1. Why it happens

2. Why it confuses them

3. How to train them through it

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

When a client walks in and says "I've tried everything" I know right where they are going with it. They are struggling but guess what? So is the dog. 

Takeaways:

1. What this means to me
2. What is really going on
3. How you can reset

Question:  What can I do about a dog that just doesn’t want to bond with me?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Cynology Warehouse Coupon Code VERMONT

Join Ian's Private Coaching Group

Cole is very easy to talk to and has a wonderful calming energy about her.  She gave us her 3 steps to how you can regularly fulfill your dog.

Takeaways:

1. Making goals for you and your companion

2. Assessing, observing, and feeling the dog

3. Supporting the dog

Cole's Info

ortails.com

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Playing fetch with our dogs can be a lot of fun but did you know there are different ways to play to keep it exciting for your dog and still work on obedience?

Takeaways:

1. The Normal

2. The Stay

3. The Turnaround

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Jill owns Prairie K9 in Lincoln, NE and she has a passion for keeping dogs and kids safe.  We as parents and dog owners must keep everything as safe as possible. 

Takeaways:

1. Management

2. Leadership

3. Training for both dogs and kids

Jill's Info

Prairie K9

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Guess what?  There is no magic wand that will help your dog other than putting in the work, shocker I know.  You owe it to your dog to put in the work. 

Takeaways:

1. There is no magic wand

2. What dog training appears to be

3. How much work goes into it

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

We all want freedom for our dogs but we have to understand that there can be costs to having too much freedom. 

Takeaways:

1. What is freedom

2. How it effects decision making

3. How things can become unbalanced

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Tom owns Contented Canines in Columbia, SC. and he has learned from some great trainers.  His theory of being your dog's senior partner gives you the perception that it's about relationship and not being a dictator. 

Takeaways:

1. The sum of all interactions

2. Not being loud, forceful, or dominant

3. Structure, Resource Control, & Relevance

Tom's Info:

Contented Canines

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

There really isn't a place for yelling in the dog world as it shows the dog that we are out of control. 

Takeaways:

1. It overpowers the dog

2. It causes the the dog to not trust you

3. How to handle intense behaviors

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

I'm pretty sure we have all heard this saying but I think it's important that we define each one of these issues on a deeper level. 

Takeaway:

1. Our desire to touch

2. Human psychology on dogs

3. What eye contact creates

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Outro Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Commercial Music:

https://www.bensound.com

Jay has a great way of categorizing living with your dog that ranges from playing to working.  This will help any dog owners better understand how you can help your dog through the day. 

Takeaways:

1. Play-based training

2. The 4 Windows

3. What window do you need to work on?

Jay's Info:

http://nldogs.com/

Resources:

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Many dog owners think that laser pointers are fun to use with their dog.  They get to watch the dog run around and chase it.  But psychologically it's one of the worst things you can do with your dog.

Takeaways:

1. There is no scent

2. There is no sound

3. The dog will start looking for it all the time

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Helpful Links:

Ian's Online Training Community

Ian's Ohio Workshop

Insufficient stimulation in dogs can lead to the development of undesirable behaviors, and it's our responsibility as pet owners to provide them with adequate mental and physical exercise to reduce such behaviors.

Takeaways:

1. Destruction & Aggression
2. What can happen
3. Long-term effects

Question: I have 2 golden retrievers and often we have the same off leash dog run up to us with excitement that’s way over the top. One of my dogs wants to calm it down and it can get very intense. The owners of the excited don’t keep their dog on leash so it makes it hard to control mine on leash. What can I do?

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Romng Poop Bags Coupon Code VERMONTDOG

Cynology Warehouse Coupon Code VERMONT

Join Ian's Private Coaching Group

Correcting your dog from growling is like telling a child not to share their feelings.  What parent would do that?

Takeaway:

1. How dogs express themselves

2. Everyone in the vicinity knows how they feel

3. No one wants a sniper

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Energy is a hard subject to explain when it comes to dog training however Tammy has a wonderful way to help you understand it, and how to use it with your dog.

Takeaways

1. What is Pressure & Release?

2. Energy as it relates to Pressure & Release

3. Living with Purpose, Breed Fulfillment

Tammy's Info - BehaveK9Bliss

Ian's Info:

The Canine Cooperative

Ohio Workshop

YouTube

Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

A dog being shy revolves around trust which could come from it's past or negative associations.  This behavior takes some time for your dog to recover from. 

Takeaways:

1. Lowering their head as you reach to pet them

2. Head turns away when you approach them

3. Dog will back up with head pulled back when you approach

Courtesy 93.9 WLVB

Helpful Links:

Ian's Online Training Community

Ian's Ohio Workshop

Everyone wants it and I think you will be surprised by my answer with to this question. 

Takeaway:

1. Everyone wants it

2. Puppies & Rescues

3. What it takes to get off leash reliable

Helpful Links:

Canine Cooperative

Ian’s Ohio Workshop

Ian’s YouTube

Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”

Linda has been training for over 40 years and she loves PUPPIES!  Now that we are hitting the Spring there are a lot of dog owners that are "acquiring" puppies (myself included).  Linda touches on a few concepts every new puppy owner should know:

1. Early Imprinting

2. The 1st month home with a new puppy

3. Obedience

Linda's Info - https://lionheartk9.com/

Ian's Links:

The Canine Cooperative

YouTube Channel

Ohio Workshop

Music:

“Bad Dog” written by John Fusco and featured on his acclaimed double album “John the Revelator”