Blog - Sit Now Stay

Swimming For Confidence: How The Indoor Dog Pool Helps Nervous Dogs

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 23:04:04 GMT

If your dog is nervous around new environments, unsure around water, or struggles with confidence, swim lessons can be one of the safest and most effective ways to help them grow.

At Sit Now Stay, our indoor dog pool in Kansas City is not just for fun. It is a structured, guided environment where dogs learn how to feel calm, capable, and in control. Through professional coaching and a step-by-step introduction, your dog can build confidence that carries into everyday life.

Why Some Dogs Are Nervous Around Water

Not all dogs are natural swimmers, even breeds you might expect to love the water.

Many dogs feel unsure because:

They have never been properly introduced to water
They had a negative first experience
They feel unstable or unsure of how to move
They become overwhelmed in new environments

When a dog feels out of control, their confidence drops. This can show up as hesitation, avoidance, or even panic.

That is why how you introduce water matters just as much as the activity itself.

Why Swimming Builds Confidence

Swimming is one of the most powerful confidence-building activities for dogs when it is done correctly.

Here is why:

It teaches body awareness
Dogs learn how to move, balance, and coordinate in a new way.

It creates small, quick wins
Each successful movement builds trust in themselves and their environment.

It builds resilience
Dogs learn they can try something new and succeed with guidance.

It strengthens the dog-owner connection
Your dog learns to look to you for direction and reassurance.

For nervous dogs, these wins add up quickly and often carry over into other areas like walks, socialization, and training.

Why Throwing a Dog Into Water Backfires

A common mistake is assuming a dog will “figure it out” if placed in water.

This often leads to:

Panic and stress
Poor swimming form
Increased fear of water
Loss of trust

Instead of building confidence, it creates a negative association that can be hard to undo.

Confidence comes from clarity, not pressure.

How Our Dog Swim Lessons in Kansas City Work

At Sit Now Stay, swim lessons are designed to be calm, structured, and supportive from the very first moment. You can learn more about our dog swimming lessons here.

Slow, Controlled Introduction

We never rush a dog into the water.

Your dog is introduced gradually, allowing them to:

Explore the space
Get comfortable with the environment
Build trust with the trainer

Guided Entry and Support

Our trainers guide your dog through:

Safe entry into the pool
Proper positioning
Calm, supported movement

This ensures your dog feels stable and secure from the start.

Building Confidence Through Repetition

We focus on small, repeatable successes.

Each session helps your dog:

Improve technique
Gain strength
Feel more in control

Positive, Clear Communication

We use structured training methods to help your dog understand what is expected.

This removes confusion and allows your dog to relax and learn.

Benefits Beyond Swimming

While swimming is great exercise, the biggest transformation is often mental.

Clients often notice:

Reduced anxiety in new environments
Better focus and listening
Improved leash behavior
More willingness to try new things
A calmer, more balanced dog at home

This is because confidence is not just about the pool. It changes how your dog approaches the world.

What to Expect From Your First Lesson

Your first session is all about comfort and understanding your dog.

We focus on:

Evaluating your dog’s current confidence level
Introducing them at their pace
Creating a positive first experience
Giving you guidance on what to expect next

Many dogs go from hesitant to curious within a single session when introduced the right way.

Is Your Dog a Good Fit for Swim Lessons?

Swim lessons are a great fit if your dog:

Is nervous or unsure in new situations
Lacks confidence
Has had a negative experience with water
Needs a safe physical outlet
Would benefit from structured, guided exposure

Even confident dogs benefit from improving technique and building strength in a controlled environment.

A Safe, Clean, and Controlled Environment

Our indoor facility is designed with safety and structure in mind.

Unlike outdoor or unstructured environments, your dog benefits from:

Consistent conditions
Professional supervision
Clean, controlled water
A calm training-focused atmosphere

This makes it easier for your dog to focus, learn, and succeed.

Continue Building Confidence Beyond the Pool

Swimming is often just the beginning.

Many clients pair swim lessons with our training programs to continue building:

Obedience
Engagement
Real-world confidence

Learn about our dog training approach here.

If your dog struggles with confidence, you do not have to navigate it alone.

Our dog swim lessons in Kansas City give your dog a safe place to learn, grow, and succeed with expert guidance every step of the way.

Start with a lesson and see the difference confidence can make. Contact us today!

The Real Reason Your Puppy Bites And How To Stop It With Structure

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:53:50 GMT

Puppy biting is not random. It is not your puppy being “bad.” And it is not something you just have to survive until teething ends.

The real reason your puppy bites is a lack of structure, clarity, and impulse control.

Most puppies are not trying to hurt you. They are overwhelmed, overstimulated, under-rested, or confused about what to do instead. When you give them a clear communication system and predictable structure, the biting improves quickly.

If you are dealing with sharp teeth, ripped sleeves, and a puppy who turns into a tiny tornado at night, this is fixable. You just need the right plan.

Why Puppies Really Bite

When families try to figure out why puppies bite, they usually see one answer: teething.

Yes, puppies do teeth. But teething is only one small piece of the puzzle.

Here is what is actually happening.

1. Exploration

Puppies experience the world with their mouths. Hands, shoes, sleeves, hair. Everything is information.

If they are not taught appropriate boundaries early, mouthing becomes a habit.

2. Overstimulation

Many biting episodes happen in the evening. Your puppy suddenly becomes wild, zooming and grabbing at anything in reach.

This is usually not defiance. It is overtired behavior.

Puppies need significantly more sleep than most families realize. Without structured naps, their ability to control their impulses disappears.

3. Lack of Impulse Control

Impulse control is not automatic. It is taught.

A puppy who bites during play has not yet learned how to regulate excitement. Without structured training that builds calmness and self-control, the biting escalates.

4. Accidental Reinforcement

Sometimes we unknowingly reward biting.

Waving hands around
Yelling
Pulling away quickly
Engaging in chaotic play

To a puppy, this feels like a game. Even negative attention can reinforce the behavior.

Why Redirection Alone Often Fails

You may have been told to just give them a toy to deal with the issue. While
redirection can help in the moment, but by itself it does not teach:

Self-control
Clear boundaries
What behavior earns attention
How to regulate excitement

If every biting attempt turns into a new toy or a fun reaction from you, the puppy is still practicing the pattern of using their mouth when excited.

The goal is not just to replace your hand with a toy. The goal is to teach the puppy what to do instead.

That requires structure.

How Structure Stops Puppy Biting

At Sit Now Stay, we focus on building calm, confident puppies through clear communication and predictable routines.

Here is what that structure looks like.

1. Clear Communication Through Marker Training

Our custom Marker Training System creates clarity for both the dog and the owner.

Instead of guessing, your puppy learns:

Exactly what behavior earns rewards
When they made the right choice
How to repeat it

When communication becomes clear, frustration drops. Confusion drops. Biting decreases because the puppy understands what works.

2. Opportunity Engagement

We teach puppies to check in voluntarily instead of constantly seeking chaos.

This means your puppy learns to:

Look to you for direction
Pause before acting
Stay mentally connected even with distractions

A puppy who checks in is far less likely to launch at your hands.

3. Structured Rest

Many biting issues improve dramatically when puppies are placed on a nap schedule.

Crate time is not punishment. It is recovery.

A rested puppy is capable of learning. An exhausted puppy bites.

4. Leash Communication and Household Boundaries

Structure is not about being strict. It is about being clear.

We teach leash communication early so puppies understand guidance and direction. We also teach place work and household manners so excitement does not spiral into nipping and jumping.

When boundaries are consistent, puppies relax.

What You Can Start Doing Today

If your puppy is biting, here are practical steps you can implement immediately.

1. Interrupt calmly.
Avoid yelling or dramatic reactions. Calmly disengage.

2. Enforce naps.
If biting spikes, your puppy likely needs sleep.

3. Reduce chaotic play.
Choose structured games instead of wrestling or fast hand movements.

4. Reward calm behavior.
Mark and reward moments when your puppy is sitting calmly, chewing appropriately, or relaxing.

5. Prevent rehearsal.
If your puppy repeatedly practices biting, the behavior strengthens. Use leashes, gates, and crates to prevent constant rehearsal.

When Puppy Biting Becomes a Bigger Problem

Left unaddressed, puppy biting can evolve into:

Adolescent leash frustration
Jumping on guests
Poor impulse control
Resource guarding
Reactivity

The puppy stage is your window of opportunity.

Training between 8 and 24 weeks creates the foundation for a confident, well-mannered adult dog.

How Sit Now Stay Helps Puppies

At Sit Now Stay , we specialize in structured puppy training that builds confidence, manners, and clear communication from day one.

We provide structured training plans, progress updates, and coaching so you feel confident handling your puppy at home.

We do not rely on gimmicks or unrealistic promises. We build skills that last.

If you are in Lenexa, Overland Park, Olathe, or the greater Kansas City area, we are here to help you turn chaos into calm.

Ready to Stop the Biting?

You do not have to wait for your puppy to “grow out of it.”

With the right structure, clear communication, and professional guidance, you can dramatically reduce puppy biting and build a stronger relationship at the same time.

Call us at (913) 285-8363 or schedule your consultation today. Let’s create a clear plan that gives you peace at home and a more confident and comfortable puppy.

How Early Puppy Training Prevents Behavior Problems Later

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:48:09 GMT

Early puppy training gives your dog the structure, confidence, and communication skills they need to grow into a calm, well behaved adult. When you start during the first few months of life, your puppy learns good habits before unwanted behaviors take hold. Families in the Kansas City area see fewer frustrations at home and feel more confident because their puppy understands what is expected.

At Sit Now Stay, we work with puppies as young as eight weeks old. This is when learning happens fastest and when small choices shape long term behavior. Early support helps prevent issues that often show up months or years later

Why the First Months Matter

Puppies enter a key development phase between eight a nd twenty four weeks of age. This is when they learn to feel safe in new situations, understand simple instructions, and settle into home routines. It is also the period when behaviors such as fearfulness, jumping, biting, and pulling on leash often begin if the puppy does not have guidance.

Early training gives your puppy a predictable view of the world. They learn what earns praise, how to make good choices on their own, and how to stay calm even when their surroundings get busy. Confident puppies grow into dogs who adapt more easily throughout life.

A strong start prevents most behavior problems before they form.

Common Behavior Problems That Early Training Helps Prevent

Biting, Nipping, and Chewing

Puppies explore with their mouths. Without structure, this turns into habits that are difficult to fix later. Training teaches your puppy how to use their mouth appropriately and gives them activities that build focus and self control.

Jumping on People

Jumping often begins as a request for attention. Early foundation work teaches puppies how to greet politely so the habit never takes hold.

Potty Accidents and Inconsistent Routines

A reliable potty schedule is one of the most important early skills. Consistent routines prevent long term struggles with house training.

Difficulty Settling or Staying Calm

Many adult dogs struggle with relaxation because they never learned how to settle. Early training teaches calm behavior through simple patterns and predictable structure.

Fearfulness and Sound Sensitivity

Without thoughtful exposure, puppies may grow into anxious or reactive adults. Confidence building experiences such as FitPaws, enrichment stations, and gentle socialization help them feel secure in new environments.

Pulling on Leash

Pulling becomes a habit quickly. When puppies learn leash communication early, they understand how to walk beside their person without frustration for either side.

Socialization and Confidence Begin Early

Healthy socialization is more than meeting new dogs. It builds confidence by exposing puppies to a wide variety of safe and structured experiences. This prevents later issues such as fear barking, hesitation around visitors, or anxiety during new outings.

At Sit Now Stay, socialization includes:

Exposure to new surfaces, sounds, shapes, and movement
Introductory agility for confidence
FitPaws and balance work
Structured greetings
Calm crate time and safe rest cycles

These experiences help your puppy see the world as predictable and safe. Confident puppies grow into dogs who make better choices and show fewer behavior challenges later in life.

How Communication Training Shapes Adult Behavior

Most puppies are not ignoring their owners. They simply do not understand what is being asked. A clear communication system builds trust and reduces confusion.

Sit Now Stay uses its signature marker training system, which teaches puppies the meaning of yes, try again, and other simple feedback cues. Puppies learn how to stay engaged with their handler, which becomes a lifelong language owners can use anywhere.

Early communication training leads to:

Faster learning
Stronger attention around distractions
Better manners at home
Reliable responses to everyday cues

When communication is simple and consistent, puppies feel less pressure and behave with more confidence.

Crate Training, Leash Manners, and Daily Routine

A predictable structure helps puppies feel safe. Crate training teaches a puppy how to relax, rest, and self soothe. Leash manners help them stay connected to you during walks. Daily routines reduce stress because the puppy can predict what comes next.

These early skills prevent long term issues such as:

Anxiety during alone time
Door rushing
Overexcitement
Pulling and zigzagging on walks
Difficulty settling at home

Families often see a calmer household once these basic skills take root.

Early Training Builds Lifelong Behavior

Good behavior does not develop on its own. It is shaped through early guidance and consistent structure. Puppies who start training early learn how to navigate the world with confidence. They grow into dogs who are easier to take in public, more predictable at home, and more enjoyable for the whole family.

Whether you want to prevent future issues or support a puppy who is already showing early challenges, training during the first few months gives you the strongest possible foundation.

Support for Your Puppy in the Kansas City Area

If you want to give your puppy the best start in life, our team at Sit Now Stay is here to help. We offer programs designed for puppies eight to twenty four weeks of age and use a clear, supportive training system that builds confidence, manners, and communication.

Ready to Help Your Puppy Start Strong?

Early training sets your dog up for calm behavior and easier days at home. If you want guidance, structure, and a team that truly loves supporting young dogs, we would be happy to help you get started.

Call us at (913) 285-8363 or contact us online.

Sit Now Stay is locally owned in Lenexa, KS, and proudly serves the Kansas City area.

Tackling Aggressive Dog Training — How Professional Training Makes a Difference

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 18:47:00 GMT

When a dog shows aggression — lunging, growling, snapping — it’s more than a behavior issue: it’s a communication breakdown. At Sit Now Stay, we believe aggression is a signal that a dog is overwhelmed, fearful, or lacking the skills to succeed. With the right approach, guided by experienced trainers, a dog can transform from reactive to reliable, and become a member of the family you’re proud to bring home.

Why Aggression Happens

Aggressive behavior doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Common underlying causes include:

Fear, frustration or lack of socialization
Resource guarding (food, toys, space)
Previous trauma or inconsistent leadership
Poor impulse control and limited coping skills
Underlying pain or medical issuesRecognizing that aggression is often rooted in survival rather than “bad dog” behavior is the first step toward meaningful change.

What Training at Sit Now Stay Looks Like

At our Lenexa facility, we create structured, calm environments where dogs build confidence and choose better behavior. Here’s what aggressive-behavior training includes:

One-on-one assessments to identify triggers and motivators
Controlled exposure and desensitization to people, objects or situations that elicit responses
Skill-building to teach impulse control, self-management, and alternative behaviors
Handler education so you can guide your dog consistently at home and in real-life contexts
Ongoing support and practice to maintain progress beyond the training sessions

Safety First — Because Prevention Matters

Aggression carries risks. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, dog-bite prevention strategies include supervised socialization, early training, and consistent leadership. (See more: ASPCA Dog Bite Prevention )

By intervening early — and safely — you’ll protect your dog, your family, and your community.

Is It Time to Ask for Help?

If you’re managing worrying behavior — guarding, growling, unexpectedly snapping — don’t wait. A professional training plan tailored to aggression can redirect the behavior before it escalates. At Sit Now Stay, we are ready to help you and your dog move forward.

Reach out today to schedule your free evaluation , and let’s build a pathway from reactive to reliable — together.

The post Tackling Aggressive Dog Training — How Professional Training Makes a Difference appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Why Board and Train in Lenexa is the Best Option for Dogs

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 17:10:00 GMT

Board and Train gives dogs the consistency they need to learn faster. At Sit Now Stay’s Lenexa training facility, your dog works daily with professional trainers who build strong habits, better behavior, and reliable obedience. This approach is ideal for busy owners, excited young dogs, and newly adopted companions adjusting to a new routine.

Results That Last

Training doesn’t stop when your dog comes home. Board and Train builds a foundation of focus and manners so you can enjoy a calmer, more cooperative dog in everyday life. Whether your dog needs help with jumping, leash pulling, greeting guests, or ignoring distractions, the structure of Boarding School provides the breakthrough many families are looking for.

Programs to Fit Your Goals

Our 7 Day Boarding School introduces engagement, communication, and impulse control. The 14 Day program is our most popular choice for dogs needing on-leash reliability and general manners in public. The 21 Day Gold Star program expands into off-leash foundation work and distraction-proof performance for a well-rounded, confident dog.

Support for Owners

Every program includes private lessons and Graduate Classes so you learn how to maintain success at home. We guide you step-by-step, ensuring your dog’s results continue long after graduation.

Start with a Free Consultation

Speak with a trainer today to determine the best program for your dog and lifestyle. Board and Train takes the stress out of training while giving you the well-behaved dog you’ve always wanted.

The post Why Board and Train in Lenexa is the Best Option for Dogs appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Training for All Ages: Options Available at Sit Now Stay for Puppies, Adult Dogs, and Seniors

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 18:58:00 GMT

Every dog deserves training that matches their stage in life. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Lenexa, KS, we offer customized programs designed for puppies, adult dogs, and senior companions. Training isn’t just about obedience—it’s about strengthening communication, confidence, and understanding between you and your dog. No matter their age, dogs can continue learning and thriving with the right approach.

Setting the Foundation with Puppy Training

Our puppy training programs are built to start your dog off on the right paw. We offer three structured programs: Basic Manners & Obedience, Dog Behavior Modification, and Dog Performance Training. These sessions help young dogs learn fundamental commands, develop impulse control, and establish positive habits early on. With patience and consistency, puppies become well-mannered companions ready to take on more advanced training as they grow.

Guidance for Adult Dogs with Energy and Experience

Adult dogs often benefit from structured learning that keeps them mentally engaged and well-behaved at home and in public. At Sit Now Stay, we provide both Day School and Boarding School programs that focus on polishing obedience skills and addressing specific behavioral challenges. These training options are ideal for busy owners who want to ensure their dogs receive expert guidance throughout the day. Our goal is to help adult dogs reach their full potential while maintaining a fun, positive learning environment.

Gentle Support for Senior Dogs

Older dogs can benefit from training , too. Many senior dogs thrive when learning gentle exercises and low-impact skills that keep their minds sharp and their bodies active. Training helps them stay engaged, confident, and socially comfortable, even as their physical abilities change. Our trainers adapt exercises and commands to meet the needs of older dogs, ensuring they stay happy and stimulated.

A Lifelong Commitment to Learning

Training doesn’t end once your dog masters a few commands—it’s an ongoing journey that builds a stronger bond over time. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we tailor our methods to your dog’s individual personality and life stage, ensuring lasting results and better communication. Whether you’re raising a new puppy, working with an energetic adult, or caring for a senior dog, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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Transforming Troublemakers into Well-Behaved Companions with Sit Now Stay Dog Training

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 21:05:00 GMT

Every dog has the potential to be a well-mannered companion, but sometimes, undesirable behaviors make that journey a little more challenging. Whether your dog is struggling with excessive barking, leash pulling, aggression, or separation anxiety, Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Leawood, KS, is here to help. Through expert behavior modification techniques, we guide dogs toward becoming the well-behaved pets their owners dream of.

Addressing Undesirable Behaviors

Dogs act out for a variety of reasons—lack of training, fear, anxiety, or even unintentional reinforcement of bad habits. At Sit Now Stay, we focus on identifying the root cause of these behaviors and using structured training to address them effectively.

Excessive Barking

If your dog barks non-stop at passing cars, guests, neighbors, or even at nothing at all, it can quickly become frustrating. Barking is a natural form of communication, but when it’s excessive, it may indicate anxiety, boredom, or territorial instincts. Our trainers work on redirecting attention, reinforcing quiet behavior, and providing mental stimulation to reduce unnecessary barking.

Leash Pulling

A pleasant walk can turn into a battle of strength when your dog constantly pulls on the leash. This behavior is often due to excitement or a lack of understanding of proper leash manners. We use structured training techniques, teaching loose-leash walking, proper leash handling, and consistent commands.

Aggression Toward Other Dogs or People

Aggressive behavior can stem from fear, past experiences, or a lack of socialization. Whether your dog is reactive on walks or struggles with resource guarding, our trainers use desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques to reshape these responses. Through controlled interactions and reinforcement of calm behavior, we help dogs build positive associations with their environment.

Separation Anxiety

If your dog becomes destructive, vocal, or stressed when left alone, they may be suffering from separation anxiety . This behavior can be challenging to overcome without the right approach. We focus on gradual desensitization, confidence-building exercises, and creating a structured routine that helps dogs feel secure even when their owners are away.

How Sit Now Stay Helps

At Sit Now Stay, we believe that every dog deserves the chance to become a well-behaved family member. Our behavior modification services are designed to target specific problems while improving overall obedience and confidence. Whether through private lessons, day school, boarding school, or puppy training, our expert trainers work closely with each dog to create lasting behavioral changes. No matter the challenges your dog faces, transformation is possible. With the right training, patience, and expertise, even the most stubborn troublemakers can become well-mannered companions. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a happier, more obedient dog, contact Sit Now Stay Dog Training today .

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Beyond Basic Obedience: Exploring Behavior Modifications with Sit Now Stay

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 20:11:00 GMT

Training your dog is more than just teaching them to sit, stay, or come when called. While obedience commands are essential, many pet owners find themselves facing behavioral challenges that go beyond the basics. Whether it’s excessive barking, leash reactivity, separation anxiety, or fear-based behaviors, these issues require a deeper level of training—one that focuses on modifying behavior rather than simply enforcing obedience. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we believe in shaping well-mannered, confident, and happy dogs through behavior modification techniques that address the root cause of unwanted behaviors. With customized training programs like private lessons, day school, boarding school, and puppy training, we offer solutions that fit the unique needs of each dog and their owner.

Understanding Behavior Modification

Behavior modification is a training approach that focuses on altering unwanted behaviors through reinforcement, consistency, and structured guidance. Unlike basic obedience training, which teaches commands, behavior modification aims to change a dog’s emotional response to certain situations, leading to long-term improvements in behavior. This approach is especially beneficial for dogs struggling with anxiety, aggression, fearfulness, or impulse control issues.

Common Behavioral Issues We Address

Many dog owners seek behavior modification training when they experience:

Leash Reactivity: Lunging, barking, or growling at other dogs or people while on walks.
Separation Anxiety: Excessive distress when left alone, leading to destructive behaviors or vocalization.
Fear-Based Behaviors: Avoidance, cowering, or excessive barking due to past trauma or lack of socialization.
Excessive Barking: Barking at visitors, noises, or other stimuli with little ability to calm down.
Resource Guarding: Defensiveness over food, toys, or spaces in the home.

Our Approach to Behavior Modification

At Sit Now Stay, we use proven training techniques tailored to each dog’s specific needs. Here’s how we help:

1. Assessing the Root Cause

Before implementing any training plan, we take time to understand why a behavior is occurring. Is your dog barking out of excitement, fear, or frustration? Are they reacting aggressively due to past trauma or lack of confidence? Identifying the root cause allows us to customize a training plan that addresses the behavior effectively.

2. Reinforcement and Counterconditioning

Dogs learn best through reinforcement. Rather than punishing unwanted behaviors, we reward alternative, desirable behaviors. For example, if a dog is fearful of strangers, we work to create positive associations by rewarding calm behavior in the presence of new people. Through counterconditioning, we help dogs replace negative reactions with positive ones.

3. Consistency and Structure

Behavior modification requires patience and consistency. We educate owners on how to introduce training at home, ensuring that progress continues beyond training sessions. Structure in a dog’s daily routine, along with clear expectations, helps reinforce desired behaviors and reduce anxiety or confusion.

4. Building Confidence Through Training

Many behavioral issues stem from insecurity or fear. By incorporating confidence-building exercises such as agility, obedience games, and controlled socialization, we help dogs develop resilience and trust in their environment.

Taking the Next Step

If your dog’s behaviors are causing frustration or concern, you don’t have to navigate the challenges alone. Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Shawnee, KS offers a variety of programs, including private lessons, day school, boarding school, and puppy training, to help mold your dog’s behavior and set them up for success. Behavior modification is a journey, but with the right training, your dog can develop into a well-behaved, confident companion. Contact us today to learn how we can help you and your dog build a better future together!

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Bringing Harmony to Your Home: The Impact of Board and Train for Dog Owners

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 17:28:00 GMT

As professional dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we’ve seen firsthand how board and train programs can transform a dog’s behavior and bring peace to a household. Whether you’re struggling with basic obedience, unwanted behaviors, or just want to set a strong foundation for your furry friend, board and train can be a game-changer.

Why Choose Board and Train?

Board and train programs provide an immersive experience where dogs learn essential skills in a structured environment. Unlike traditional training that relies solely on owner participation, these programs allow trainers to work intensively with each dog, reinforcing good behaviors through consistency, repetition, and expert guidance. This leads to faster results and a smoother transition when your dog returns home.

One of the biggest advantages of board and train is that it removes your dog from daily distractions, allowing them to focus solely on learning. Many behaviors that are challenging to correct at home—such as leash pulling, excessive barking, or jumping on guests—can be systematically addressed in a controlled setting. By the time your dog returns, they have a solid foundation that makes it easier for you to reinforce their training at home.

What to Expect from Your Dog After Training

After completing our Board and Train programs at Sit Now Stay serving Kansas City, KS, owners can expect their dogs to demonstrate significant improvements in behavior and obedience. Whether they participated in our 7-Day, 14-Day, or 21-Day Boarding School, dogs will have a strong grasp of essential commands like sit, stay, and recall. Owners will notice their dogs responding consistently even in distracting environments, showcasing their adaptability and reliability. As a result, daily interactions and routines will become smoother and more enjoyable. Furthermore, the confidence and improved behavior instilled during training will lead to a more harmonious relationship between you and your pet, making the transition back home a positive experience for both.

The Lasting Impact on Your Household

A well-trained dog isn’t just about commands; it’s about improving the overall quality of life for both you and your pet. Board and train programs help create a calmer, more obedient companion who understands boundaries , listens to commands, and is more enjoyable to be around. This means fewer frustrations, a stronger bond between you and your dog, and ultimately, a more harmonious home environment. Of course, training doesn’t stop when your dog comes home. It’s important for owners to reinforce what their dog has learned, and we provide guidance to ensure a smooth transition. With the right commitment, board and train can set the foundation for a lifetime of good behavior and companionship.

If you’re ready to bring more peace and joy into your home with a well-trained dog, consider the benefits of a board-and-train program . Your furry friend—and your household—will thank you for it!

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Integrating Training into Everyday Life: Tips from Sit Now Stay Dog Training

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:38:00 GMT

Training your dog doesn’t have to be limited to structured sessions—it can and should be a natural part of your everyday routine. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we believe that consistency and reinforcement throughout the day help mold well-mannered, confident dogs. Whether you’re at home, out for a walk, or running errands, integrating training into daily life strengthens your bond with your dog and reinforces good behavior. Here are some simple ways to make training a regular part of your day:

1. Use Mealtimes as Training Opportunities

Instead of simply placing a bowl of food in front of your dog, use mealtime as a way to reinforce commands. Have your dog sit, stay, or lie down before giving them their food. You can also practice impulse control by asking them to wait before they start eating. This builds discipline and makes mealtime an engaging learning experience.

2. Reinforce Commands During Walks

A walk isn’t just exercise—it’s an excellent time for training. Practice loose-leash walking by stopping whenever your dog pulls, only moving forward when they relax the tension on the leash. Use commands like “sit” at crosswalks or “heel” when passing distractions. This helps reinforce good leash manners while keeping your dog engaged and focused.

3. Turn Playtime into Training Time

Tug-of-war, fetch, and other games can all double as training opportunities. For example, ask for a “drop it” command during a game of fetch or practice recall (“come”) when throwing a toy. Playtime is one of the best times to reinforce commands because your dog is excited and motivated.

4. Incorporate Training into Household Chores

Everyday household tasks can be great for practicing commands. Have your dog sit or stay while you load the dishwasher, fold laundry, or vacuum . If you’re bringing in groceries, practice “place” by having them stay in a designated spot until you’re finished. These small moments help build patience and self-control.

5. Socialize While Running Errands

If your dog is comfortable and well-behaved in public settings, bring them along for dog-friendly errands. Practicing calm behavior around new people and environments helps improve socialization skills. Use opportunities to apply commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” when distractions arise.

6. Reward Calm Behavior

One of the best ways to integrate training naturally is by rewarding good behavior when it happens. If your dog lies down calmly while you’re working, give them a treat or verbal praise. If they wait at the door instead of bolting outside, reward that behavior. Catching and rewarding these moments encourages your dog to repeat them.

7. Be Consistent with Boundaries

If your dog isn’t allowed on the couch, make sure the rule is enforced at all times. If you don’t want them to jump on guests, never allow it—even when it seems harmless. Clear and consistent expectations help your dog understand the rules, preventing confusion and support good habits.

Training Support When You Need It

You don’t have to hassle introducing commands into daily life alone. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas, KS, we offer private lessons, day school, boarding school, and puppy training to help guide you and your dog toward success. Our programs are designed to mold behaviors in a way that fits your lifestyle, ensuring training is practical and effective. By making training a natural and consistent part of your routine, you’ll see massive improvements in your dog’s learning and behavior. Remember, every interaction with your dog is an opportunity to teach and build good habits—so let us help you embrace training as part of your daily life!

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The Importance of Communication in Dog Training at Sit Now Stay

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 20:19:00 GMT

When it comes to building a strong, trusting bond with your dog, communication is everything. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Lenexa, KS, we understand that effective communication is the foundation of successful behavioral training. Through understanding the nuances of body language, tone, and timing, we help pet owners bridge the gap between their world and their dog’s.

Body Language: Speaking Without Words

Dogs are incredibly perceptive creatures, relying heavily on body language to understand and interact with the world around them. As trainers, we teach you to harness the power of your movements to communicate clearly with your dog. For instance:

Posture : A confident stance can encourage your dog to feel secure, while a slouched posture may convey uncertainty or stress.
Hand Signals : Dogs can learn to associate specific gestures with commands, making training smoother and more intuitive.
Eye Contact : Maintaining appropriate eye contact fosters trust and helps your dog stay focused during training sessions.

By becoming more aware of your own body language, you can prevent misunderstandings and guide your dog’s behavior more effectively.

Tone of Voice: Finding the Right Balance

The tone of your voice plays a pivotal role in how your dog interprets your commands and emotions. Dogs are masters at picking up on subtle vocal cues, and their responses often depend on how you say something rather than just the words themselves.

Upbeat Tones : A cheerful, encouraging tone signals approval and motivates your dog to repeat desired behaviors.
Firm, Calm Commands : Using a steady and assertive voice ensures clarity and helps your dog understand when they need to focus.
Consistency : Maintaining a consistent tone across training sessions prevents confusion and reinforces learned behaviors.

At Sit Now Stay, we emphasize the importance of tone consistency as it helps canines associate the tone with commands.

Timing: The Key to Clear Communication

Timing is everything in dog training. Delivering commands, rewards, or corrections at the right moment is crucial for helping your dog associate their actions with the desired outcome.

Immediate Responses : Praising or rewarding your dog within seconds of a correct behavior ensures they understand what they did right.
Prompt Corrections : Addressing unwanted behaviors immediately helps your dog connect their actions with the correction.
Consistency in Routine : Establishing a predictable training schedule reinforces learning and helps your dog know what to expect and what will be expected of them.

Our trainers at Sit Now Stay work with you to develop impeccable timing, ensuring that interactions with your dog are meaningful and impactful.

Behavioral Training at Sit Now Stay

In Lenexa, KS, Sit Now Stay offers a variety of programs tailored to meet the unique needs of dogs and their owners. Whether you choose private lessons, day school, boarding school, or puppy training, our goal is to help mold your dog’s behavior while strengthening the bond you share. Our trainers not only focus on teaching commands but also on enhancing communication between you and your pup. This approach ensures that the skills you learn during training sessions translate into your everyday life.

Why Communication Matters

When you learn to communicate with clarity and purpose, your dog feels more secure, confident, and eager to please. The result? A well-behaved companion who thrives in any environment. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we believe that every dog deserves the chance to be their best self, and every owner deserves the tools to guide them there. By mastering the art of communication, you can unlock your dog’s potential and enjoy a harmonious partnership. Contact Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Lenexa, KS, today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you and your dog succeed.

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Incorporating Physical Activity into Your Dog’s Routine for Optimal Training

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:52:00 GMT

As dog trainers in Mission Hills, KS, we often get asked about the key components of effective dog training. While consistency, clear communication, and patience are essential, one often-overlooked factor is exercise. Physical activity plays a critical role in shaping not just your dog’s physical health but also their mental well-being and ability to learn. Let’s explore how incorporating exercise into your training routine can create a balanced, happy, and well-behaved dog.

Physical Benefits of Exercise

Regular exercise keeps your dog fit, strengthens their muscles, improves cardiovascular health , and helps maintain a healthy weight. Active dogs are less prone to obesity-related issues such as joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease. A physically fit dog is also less likely to suffer from injuries during play or training, ensuring they can enjoy life to the fullest.

Mental Benefits of Exercise

A tired dog is a happy dog. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, promoting a sense of calm and well-being. It also reduces anxiety, stress, and destructive behaviors that can arise from boredom or pent-up energy. Dogs that are mentally engaged through exercise are better equipped to focus during training sessions, making the learning process smoother and more enjoyable for both of you.

How Exercise Enhances Training

Training requires your dog’s full attention, and exercise helps prepare them for this by burning off excess energy. A well-exercised dog is less likely to be distracted and more likely to respond to commands. Here are some ways exercise supports training:

Improved Focus : A dog that has had an outlet for their energy can concentrate better on tasks.
Enhanced Behavior : Physical activity reduces unwanted behaviors such as chewing, barking, and jumping, which can interfere with training progress.
Strengthened Bond : Exercise often involves interaction between you and your dog, building trust and deepening your connection.

Incorporating Exercise into Training Routines

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we recommend blending physical activity with training exercises to make the experience enjoyable and effective. Here are a few tips:

Start with a Warm-Up Walk : Begin each training session with a brisk walk or jog to burn off initial energy.
Use Active Training Techniques : Combine commands with movement, such as practicing “sit” or “stay” during a game of fetch or teaching “heel” while walking or running.
Incorporate Play : Activities like tug-of-war or agility courses can double as exercise and training, keeping your dog physically and mentally engaged.
Schedule Regular Breaks : During training, allow time for your dog to stretch their legs and release energy before refocusing on commands.
Tailor Activities to Your Dog : Consider your dog’s age, breed, and fitness level. High-energy breeds may need longer or more intense exercise, while senior dogs may benefit from gentler activities.

Sit Now Stay Dog Training Can Help

Whether you’re working on basic manners or advanced skills, incorporating exercise into your training routine is key. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Mission Hills, KS, we offer a variety of programs tailored to meet your needs, including private lessons, day school, boarding school, and puppy training. These programs are designed to help mold your dog’s behavior while considering their physical and mental needs.

A Happier, Healthier Pup Awaits

By combining regular exercise with structured training, you’re setting your dog up for success. A physically and mentally balanced dog is more receptive to learning and more enjoyable to be around. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we’re here to support you in creating a routine that keeps your dog happy, healthy, and well-behaved. Contact us today to learn how we can help you and your pup thrive!

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Integrating Dog Training Into Everyday Life: Tips from Sit Now Stay Dog Training

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:20:00 GMT

Training your dog doesn’t have to be limited to just scheduled sessions or special training environments. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we believe that dog training should be an integrated part of your everyday life, making it natural, fun, and effective. By incorporating small training moments throughout your day, you can reinforce good behavior while deepening the bond with your furry companion.

Here are some helpful tips on how to seamlessly incorporate training into your daily routine:

1. Start with Basic Commands During Walks

Daily walks are a fantastic opportunity to work on basic obedience skills. As you walk your dog, practice commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “heel.” Use the environment around you to encourage positive behavior—when your dog encounters a distraction, use it as a chance to reinforce focus and control. This will help your dog understand that the skills they’ve learned during training apply to real-world situations.

2. Use Meal Times for Training

Mealtime is not just a chance for your dog to eat—it’s also a great time to reinforce training! Ask your dog to perform a command, like “sit” or “down,” before you place the food bowl down. You can also use mealtimes to work on patience and impulse control , teaching your dog to wait calmly before eating. This is a simple yet effective way to integrate training into something your dog already enjoys.

3. Train During Playtime

Playtime is another valuable opportunity to integrate training. Whether it’s fetch, tug-of-war, or simply playing with a favorite toy, use these moments to reinforce important behaviors. For example, teach your dog to “drop it” during a game of fetch or “leave it” during tug-of-war. Playtime can be a fun and rewarding way to reinforce what’s learned in training sessions.

4. Reinforce Good Behavior at Home

Your home is a learning environment, too! Every interaction you have with your dog is a chance to encourage desired behaviors. If your dog sits calmly at the door instead of jumping, reward them with praise or a treat. If they lay down quietly while you’re cooking dinner, acknowledge their good behavior. The more consistent you are in reinforcing good behavior in everyday situations, the faster those behaviors will become second nature for your dog.

5. Incorporate Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, and training exercises are a great way to challenge your dog’s mind. You can integrate short training sessions throughout the day, teaching new commands or working on problem-solving skills. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing games, and new tricks are all ways to keep your dog mentally engaged.

6. Practice Consistency

One of the most important aspects of integrating training into your routine is consistency. Whether you’re working on house manners, leash walking, or basic commands, the key is to be consistent in your expectations. Use the same cues and reward system every time to help your dog understand what’s expected of them. The more consistent you are, the quicker your dog will learn and retain the skills you’re teaching.

7. Involve the Whole Family

Training your dog should be a family effort. Everyone in your household should be on the same page when it comes to commands and expectations. This ensures that your dog receives clear and consistent messages, making training more effective. If everyone practices basic commands like “sit” and “stay,” your dog will quickly learn to apply those behaviors in various contexts.

8. Keep Training Fun

Training doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Keep it fun by mixing things up and rewarding your dog with treats, praise, or play. The more enjoyable the training sessions, the more motivated your dog will be to learn. Celebrating their progress helps them stay excited and engaged in the process.

9. Seamlessly Transition to Real-Life Situations

Finally, remember that what you work on in training doesn’t end when you leave the training environment. Whether your dog is learning in private lessons, day school, or boarding school, the skills they acquire can be used at home or in public places. Incorporating what your dog learns in training into everyday life, such as practicing commands at the park, in the car, or when you have visitors, helps solidify those behaviors.

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Mission Hills, KS, we believe in making training a part of everyday life. Whether you’re working through our programs like private lessons, day school, boarding school, or puppy training , the techniques and skills we teach can easily be continued at home. By making training a natural part of your day-to-day routine, you’ll see lasting positive changes in your dog’s behavior—and a stronger bond with your furry friend.

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Behavioral Training: Personalized Dog Training Solutions in Lee’s Summit, MO

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 20:52:00 GMT

As dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Lee’s Summit, MO, we understand that every dog is unique. Behavioral training is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it’s about addressing specific issues and tailoring a plan that works best for your dog’s needs. Whether you’re dealing with excessive barking, leash pulling, separation anxiety, or other unwanted behaviors, our personalized training programs are designed to bring out the best in your furry friend.

Why Behavioral Training Matters

Behavioral training is the foundation of a healthy relationship between you and your dog. It goes beyond teaching basic commands to focus on resolving specific challenges. Here are some key benefits of behavioral training:

Addressing Specific Issues: Whether your dog is reactive to other animals, struggles with fear and anxiety, or has trouble following house rules, behavioral training targets these issues directly. Our trainers work to identify the root cause of the behavior and implement strategies to modify it.
Improving Communication: Behavioral training enhances the communication between you and your dog. With clear guidance and consistent reinforcement, your dog learns to understand what you expect, leading to a more harmonious relationship.
Boosting Confidence: For dogs experiencing fear or anxiety , behavioral training can be transformative. Through gradual exposure and habit building, we help dogs build confidence and feel more secure in their environment.
Creating a Safer Environment: Proper training reduces the risk of dangerous situations, such as your dog bolting out the door or reacting aggressively in unfamiliar settings. A well-trained dog is not only happier but also safer.

Personalized Training Plans for Every Dog

At Sit Now Stay, we believe in crafting training plans that are as unique as your dog. By evaluating your dog’s behavior, personality, and learning style, we create a plan tailored to meet your specific goals. Our trainers use techniques to encourage good behavior and build trust.

Programs to Fit Your Needs

Sit Now Stay in Lee’s Summit, MO, offers a variety of training options to suit different schedules and needs. While our programs—such as private lessons, day school, boarding school, and puppy training—are all designed to mold your dog’s behavior, they each provide unique benefits:

Private Lessons: Ideal for focused one-on-one training sessions that target specific behaviors or goals.
Day School: A convenient option for busy owners, allowing your dog to receive professional training during the day.
Boarding School: Perfect for immersive training experiences where your dog lives and learns with us.
Puppy Training: Laying the groundwork for good behavior and socialization during your dog’s formative months.

The Sit Now Stay Difference

What sets Sit Now Stay apart is our commitment to understanding each dog as an individual. Behavioral training with us isn’t just about correcting problems; it’s about fostering a deeper bond between you and your dog. We’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that training is a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. If you’re ready to address your dog’s behavioral challenges and create a personalized training plan, we’d love to help. Contact Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Lee’s Summit, MO, to learn more about our programs and how we can make a difference in your dog’s life. Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities and help your dog thrive. to help. Contact us today and give your dog the ultimate aquatic experience in the Kansas City area.

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Making a Splash: The Unique Indoor Dog Pool Experience at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 17:32:00 GMT

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we’re always looking for innovative ways to improve the lives of dogs and their owners. That’s why we’re proud to offer the only indoor dog pool in the Kansas City metro area! Our pool is a versatile resource that can be rented for private use, used for swim lessons, or used for low-impact hydrotherapy. Whether you’re training a new swimmer, sharpening your dog’s dock diving skills, or addressing therapeutic needs, our pool is designed to cater to dogs of all ages, sizes, and abilities.

What Makes Our Indoor Dog Pool Special?

Our pool isn’t just a fun place for dogs to splash around—it’s a purpose-built space where dogs can learn, heal, and grow. Here’s how we make the most of this unique feature:

Swim Lessons
We help both beginner pups and older dogs build their swimming confidence and skills. Our swim lessons are perfect for introducing dogs to the water in a controlled, safe environment. For older or hesitant dogs, we ensure they feel comfortable and gradually build their strength and stamina.
Low-Impact Hydrotherapy
Our pool is a fantastic resource for dogs who need low-impact exercises. It’s especially beneficial for:
- Dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries.
- Senior dogs suffering from arthritis or mobility issues.
- Overweight dogs needing a gentle way to shed pounds and build muscle.
Personal Pool Rentals
For those who want private access, we offer personal pool rentals. Whether you’re hosting a dog pool party or simply want to bond with your furry friend, our facility ensures you’ll have a clean, safe, and comfortable space.

The Benefits of Swimming for Dogs

Water-based activities offer numerous physical and mental benefits for dogs:

Builds Confidence
Swimming lessons help timid or water-shy dogs feel more comfortable in and around water, which is a crucial life skill.
Strengthens Muscles Without Stress
The buoyancy of water allows dogs to exercise without putting strain on their joints, making it ideal for pups with arthritis or recovering from surgery.
Helps with Weight Management
Swimming burns calories and builds muscle in an enjoyable, low-impact way. For overweight dogs, it’s an effective workout that’s gentle on their bodies.
Improves Overall Fitness
Regular swimming improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and enhances flexibility.
Stimulates Mental Well-Being
Activities like dock diving and swim lessons challenge dogs mentally, which is just as important as physical exercise.

Make a Splash with Sit Now Stay!

Are you ready to see how our indoor dog pool can help your dog thrive? Whether you’re interested in swim lessons, dock diving, hydrotherapy, or just a fun splash session, Sit Now Stay Dog Training is here to help. Contact us today and give your dog the ultimate aquatic experience in the Kansas City area.

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Training for Senior Dogs with Sit Now Stay Dog Training

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 18:29:00 GMT

Owning a senior dog brings with it a unique set of rewards and challenges. Older dogs often have calm, endearing personalities, but they can also develop behaviors or habits that need gentle guidance. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we believe in the importance of training at every stage of a dog’s life, including those golden years, and we’re here to help pet owners give their senior companions the best possible quality of life.

Why Train a Senior Dog?

Contrary to the old saying, old dogs can learn new tricks! Training isn’t just for young pups; older dogs benefit greatly from mental and physical engagement. Regular training sessions for seniors can help keep them sharp, provide structure, and even address behavior changes that can arise with age. Whether your dog has developed some quirks or has never had formal training, our team at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Leawood, KS, is here to provide tailored solutions that respect their age and comfort.

Training Goals for Senior Dogs

When working with senior dogs, the approach is slightly different. Here are some key goals and considerations:

Improving Comfort and Mobility: As dogs age, mobility can become a concern. Training focused on gentle exercises and stretching routines can help maintain flexibility and strength, supporting their overall health.
Managing Behavioral Changes: Age can bring about shifts in temperament , including increased anxiety or protectiveness. With gentle reinforcement we can help ease these changes, making your senior dog more comfortable and secure in their daily life.
Cognitive Enrichment: Keeping a senior dog mentally active is just as crucial as physical activity. We use exercises that stimulate their senses and engage their minds, helping to delay cognitive decline and improve quality of life.

Tailored Training Programs

Sit Now Stay offers a variety of programs, including private lessons, day school, and boarding school, which can all be customized to fit the needs of senior dogs. For some older dogs, a one-on-one approach in private lessons may be ideal, where we can work at their pace and address specific needs. Day school or boarding school may also be beneficial, providing them a controlled, positive environment to continue learning and socializing. While our training programs are typically designed for all ages, each approach is adjusted to ensure that senior dogs remain comfortable and are not overwhelmed.

Handling Health Considerations

Training a senior dog involves being mindful of any health limitations they may have. Our trainers are experienced in recognizing when an exercise may need to be adapted or a session shortened to prevent overexertion. Our training differs based on individual needs. Taking an easy going approach is especially important for seniors to feel encouraged and motivated without stress.

Common Training Challenges with Older Dogs

With senior dogs, some of the more common training challenges we see include:

Decreased Hearing or Vision: These are natural age-related changes. We use techniques such as hand signals or vibrational cues to help communicate effectively with dogs who may be losing some of their senses.
Set Habits and Stubbornness: Older dogs sometimes have deeply ingrained habits that may seem stubborn. Patience and consistency are key in reshaping these behaviors without causing frustration for your pet.
Managing Anxiety and Fearfulness: Senior dogs can become more fearful or anxious over time. Using calm, gradual exposure to new environments or stimuli, we help build their confidence and reduce stress.

Enhancing the Bond with Your Senior Dog

Training is not only about correcting behaviors or teaching new skills; it’s also about building and deepening the bond between you and your dog. Spending time working on commands or learning something new, even if it’s simple, helps reinforce trust and brings joy to both owner and pet. Plus, watching your senior dog’s excitement as they succeed in a new task is one of the most rewarding experiences!

Final Thoughts on Training for Older Dogs

Training an older dog may require a bit more patience, but the benefits for both of you are worth it. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we’re passionate about helping dogs of all ages live fulfilled, happy lives. Whether through private lessons, day school, boarding school, or other customized training options, we’re here to provide support, guidance, and love every step of the way. With Sit Now Stay, even senior dogs can discover new adventures, sharpen their minds, and enjoy a meaningful, engaging lifestyle. Embrace this wonderful stage of life with your furry friend, and let us help make it as joyful and rewarding as possible.

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Training for Safe and Happy Interactions Between Children and Dogs

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 20:53:00 GMT

As dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Olathe, KS, we’ve seen firsthand the joy that comes from a strong bond between children and their dogs. It’s heartwarming to witness a child and their furry friend grow together, developing trust, love, and mutual respect. However, fostering this connection requires careful guidance. Without proper training, interactions between children and dogs can become stressful or even unsafe. That’s why it’s essential to equip both the dog and child with the skills to engage positively and safely with one another.

At Sit Now Stay, we’re passionate about helping families create harmonious relationships between their kids and pets . Whether through private lessons, day school, boarding school, or puppy training, we offer tailored programs that can mold a dog’s behavior to ensure they are well-mannered and responsive, especially around children. But training the dog is just one part of the equation—children, too, need guidance on how to interact with dogs in a way that is both respectful and enjoyable for everyone.

Why It’s Important to Teach Children Dog Etiquette

Dogs are incredible companions, but they have their own language and boundaries that may not be immediately clear to children. A gentle pull on a dog’s tail or an overly enthusiastic hug might seem harmless to a child, but for the dog, it can cause discomfort or anxiety. By teaching kids how to approach and handle dogs with respect, you not only create a safer environment but also foster trust between them and their canine friend. Children who understand a dog’s body language and how to engage appropriately are more likely to build a lifelong bond rooted in mutual respect and love. Plus, when dogs are comfortable and secure around kids, they’re less likely to react negatively, reducing the chances of unwanted behaviors.

How Sit Now Stay Can Help Your Child Interact Respectfully and Lovingly with Their Dog

At Sit Now Stay, our training programs can help prepare both the dog and the child for these interactions. Here’s how we approach building a healthy, safe relationship between kids and their pets:

Understanding Dog Body Language : We educate families on the subtle cues dogs give to indicate how they’re feeling. Knowing when a dog is relaxed versus when they’re uncomfortable helps children adjust their behavior and approach.
Teaching Dogs Patience Around Kids : Through programs like private lessons or day school, we train dogs to remain calm and patient. Commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” are essential to ensuring the dog’s behavior remains predictable and safe.
Promoting Respectful Play : Kids often want to play with their dogs, but not all types of play are appropriate. We teach safe ways to engage with pets, including games that won’t encourage rough play or resource-guarding behaviors in dogs.
Building a Bond Based on Trust : We emphasize the importance of kindness, consistency, and reinforcement in a child’s interaction with their dog. The more your child understands how their actions affect their pet, the more confident and comfortable both will feel during their time together.
Supervised Training : During our training sessions, we encourage parents to get involved, especially when kids are around. This ensures that the child is learning alongside the dog, creating a cohesive environment where both can thrive.

Setting Your Family Up for Success

Whether you’re welcoming a new puppy into your home or working on improving an older dog’s behavior, the right training can make all the difference in building a safe, happy household. By teaching both the child and the dog how to engage positively, we set your family up for success and foster a deeper bond between everyone. At Sit Now Stay, our variety of programs—ranging from private lessons to boarding school—are designed to mold a dog’s behavior in a way that fits your family’s needs. However, it’s just as crucial for children to learn how to respectfully and lovingly interact with their furry friends. We are here to help guide your family every step of the way, ensuring that your dog and child can grow together in a safe and nurturing environment.

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Training Multiple Dogs at Once: Tips and Tricks from Sit Now Stay Dog Training

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 16:22:00 GMT

As dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we’ve worked with many families who share their homes with more than one dog. Training a single dog can be challenging enough, but training multiple dogs in one household requires a thoughtful and strategic approach to ensure all pups learn and behave harmoniously.

Here are some tips and tricks for managing the dynamics of training multiple dogs:

1. Establish Individual Training Sessions

While it’s tempting to train all your dogs at once, starting with individual sessions is essential. Each dog has a unique learning pace, temperament, and training needs. One-on-one sessions allow you to focus on each dog’s specific challenges without the distraction of other dogs. Once each dog has grasped basic commands, you can begin training them together. At Sit Now Stay in Fairway, KS, we offer private lessons that provide this one-on-one attention. This personalized training ensures that each dog receives the necessary guidance for success before moving on to group dynamics.

2. Use the Right Commands for All Dogs

One common issue is dogs responding to commands meant for others. To prevent this, teach each dog to recognize their own name and follow commands associated with it. For example, use “Max, sit” instead of just “sit” to avoid confusion. Clear communication is key when managing a multi-dog household. Our day school program at Sit Now Stay helps reinforce these skills in a structured environment, teaching dogs to focus on commands even when there are distractions, like other dogs.

3. Prioritize Consistency and Patience

Training multiple dogs requires even more patience and consistency. Dogs are incredibly perceptive and will notice if their training differs from their sibling’s. Use the same commands, cues, and rewards across all dogs to prevent any favoritism or confusion. Our boarding school program is ideal for this type of consistency. Dogs receive daily, structured training that helps reinforce the right behaviors and commands in a controlled setting, giving them the opportunity to build good habits before returning to a busy household.

4. Address Individual Needs and Behaviors

While you’re managing the dynamics of a multi-dog household, it’s important not to overlook each dog’s individual behavior patterns. One dog may be more excitable, while another could be shy or anxious. Tailoring your training to each dog’s personality will lead to better results. At Sit Now Stay, we offer specialized puppy training for younger dogs who are just starting to learn. This program lays a strong foundation for obedience, socialization, and confidence-building, making it easier for young dogs to integrate into a household with older dogs.

5. Promote Positive Interactions

Training multiple dogs doesn’t just mean teaching them commands; it’s also about fostering positive relationships between them. Reward good behavior when dogs interact calmly and playfully, and be ready to intervene if tensions arise. Teaching dogs to respect one another’s space, toys, and food can prevent conflicts. In our programs, we emphasize principle-based techniques to encourage good behaviors, both with humans and other dogs. Day school give dogs the opportunity to interact with others in a controlled, supervised environment.

6. Stay Attentive to Group Dynamics

In multi-dog households, it’s important to monitor changes in group dynamics as training progresses. As one dog learns new behaviors, it may affect the others’ behavior, too. Keep an eye on how your dogs are reacting to one another throughout training. Our trainers at Sit Now Stay can help by offering tailored advice during private lessons or through regular updates in our boarding school program. This way, you’re aware of how your dogs’ interactions are evolving, and you can address any concerns as they arise.

Conclusion: Building a Well-Behaved Pack

Training multiple dogs at once is a rewarding experience that requires patience, consistency, and a tailored approach. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Fairway, KS, we offer a variety of programs—private lessons, day school, boarding school, and puppy training—to help mold your dogs’ behaviors and ensure harmony in your multi-dog household. With the right guidance and structure, you can build a well-behaved pack that listens, learns, and thrives together.

If you’re ready to take control of your dogs’ training, we’re here to help every step of the way!

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Fear and Anxiety in Dogs: Overcoming Anxiety with Dog Training in Prairie Village, KS

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 16:59:00 GMT

Fear and anxiety in dogs can manifest in various ways, from excessive barking, destructive chewing, and hiding to even more severe behaviors like aggression or withdrawal. As trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training , located near Prairie Village, KS, we understand the complexities of these emotions in your pets. Just like humans, dogs can struggle with fear and anxiety, which often impacts their behavior, well-being, and relationship with you. Fortunately, with the right training approach, we can help your dog overcome their fears, reduce anxiety, and develop a healthier, more confident mindset.

Understanding Fear and Anxiety in Dogs

Dogs experience fear and anxiety for numerous reasons. It might stem from traumatic experiences, lack of proper socialization, sudden environmental changes, or genetic predispositions. Common symptoms include shaking, panting, excessive drooling, or avoidance of specific situations. While some dogs are naturally timid, others may develop anxiety as they grow older. Regardless of the cause, it’s essential to address these issues early before they escalate into deeper behavioral problems.

Our Approach to Helping Dogs Overcome Fear

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we believe that every dog is unique, and so are their fears. That’s why our approach to training is customized for each pet, focusing on desensitization and creating desired habits. Through gradual exposure to their fears in a controlled and safe environment, your dog can start to build positive associations. By rewarding calm and confident behavior, we can help your dog reframe their reactions to previously stressful situations.

Tailored Programs for Your Dog’s Needs

We offer a variety of training programs to suit your dog’s specific needs and your lifestyle. Whether your dog struggles with general anxiety, fear of certain objects or people, or separation anxiety, we have the expertise and programs to help mold their behavior and improve their life.

Private Lessons : Our one-on-one private lessons are perfect for dogs who need personalized attention. We will work closely with you and your dog, focusing on specific triggers that cause fear and anxiety. These sessions allow us to develop a custom training plan that tackles your dog’s unique challenges, ensuring gradual progress at their own pace while learning commands.
Day School : If you’re looking for consistent training but prefer to have it done during the day while you’re at work, our day school option is ideal. Your dog will spend the day with our experienced trainers and return home each evening, learning new behaviors in a structured environment. This option is great for dogs who need routine exposure to social situations to overcome anxiety.
Boarding School : Our boarding school option offers a full immersion experience for dogs needing more intensive training. Your dog will live and train with us, allowing for more focused and accelerated progress. This program helps instill new behaviors and responses, setting a solid foundation for overcoming anxiety while also learning skills and obedience.
Puppy Training : Starting young is one of the best ways to prevent fear and anxiety from taking hold. Our puppy training program focuses on socialization, helping your puppy become confident and well-adjusted as they grow. Early exposure to new environments, people, and experiences can reduce the likelihood of fear-based behaviors developing later in life.

A Supportive and Caring Environment

We know that helping a dog through fear and anxiety requires patience, compassion, and consistency. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we work not only with your dog but with you, teaching you how to support your pet’s progress at home. The training doesn’t stop at our facility; we give you the tools and knowledge to continue reinforcing desired behaviors long after the sessions have ended.

Why Choose Sit Now Stay?

At Sit Now Stay in Prairie Village, KS, we’ve helped countless dogs overcome their fears and become more confident, well-behaved companions. With a variety of training programs, including private lessons, day school, boarding school, and puppy training, we provide options to fit your dog’s needs and your lifestyle. Our trainers are dedicated to using methods that ensure a stress-free and rewarding experience for both you and your dog.

If your dog struggles with fear or anxiety, there is hope. Let Sit Now Stay Dog Training guide your pet toward a calmer, more confident life. Together, we can help your dog overcome their fears and build a stronger bond with you.

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Correcting Unwanted Behaviors: How Sit Now Stay Teaches Dogs Desired Behaviors

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:21:00 GMT

As dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training located in Shawnee and Lenexa Kansas, one of the most common concerns pet owners bring to us is correcting unwanted behaviors in their dogs. Whether it’s excessive barking, jumping on guests, leash pulling, or more serious issues like aggression or anxiety, we’re here to help guide both dogs and their humans toward a more harmonious life together.

The Root of the Problem

Unwanted behaviors often arise from misunderstanding, anxiety, or a lack of structure. Dogs thrive on consistency, and when they don’t have clear rules to follow, they may act out in ways that seem disruptive to us but make perfect sense to them. The good news is, with patience, consistency, and the right training methods, these behaviors can be transformed.

At Sit Now Stay, we take a personalized approach to each dog. No two dogs are exactly the same, so it’s important to understand the “why” behind their actions before we tackle the “how” to correct them. This involves working closely with dog owners to create tailored training plans that fit their lifestyle, environment, and their dog’s unique personality.

The Foundation of Desired Behavior

The cornerstone of our training philosophy is building a solid foundation for desired behaviors. Instead of focusing solely on punishment or correction, we emphasize teaching dogs what to do rather than just telling them what not to do. Through clear communication, we help dogs understand the behaviors that lead to positive outcomes, making it easier for them to make good choices even when distractions are present.

Correcting Unwanted Behaviors

Here are some of the common behaviors we address and how we correct them:

Excessive Barking : Often triggered by anxiety, boredom, or a desire for attention, we help owners identify the cause of the barking. Then, we introduce training for quiet behavior, along with techniques like desensitization and redirecting their focus.
Jumping on People : Dogs may jump to greet people, but it’s not always welcome. We teach dogs that sitting or offering another behavior leads to positive attention, while jumping gets them ignored.
Leash Pulling : Walking on a loose leash can be one of the most challenging skills for dogs to learn. By rewarding calm, collected walking and using techniques to redirect pulling, we gradually transform those tough walks into enjoyable outings.
Aggression and Reactivity : Aggressive behavior often stems from fear or a lack of socialization. We work on building trust and slowly introducing dogs to situations that typically trigger their aggression while giving them alternatives to react in a more controlled, relaxed manner.

The Role of Consistency

Consistency is key. As trainers, we work alongside dog owners to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Whether you’re in one of our private lessons, day school, boarding school, or puppy training programs, we stress the importance of maintaining clear and consistent rules at home. Dogs learn best when everyone in the household follows the same guidelines, reinforcing the desired behaviors in every setting.

A Program for Every Dog

At Sit Now Stay, we offer a range of programs that can help mold your dog’s behavior, no matter their age or temperament. Whether you need one-on-one attention with private lessons, or your dog benefits from more immersive experiences in day school or boarding school, we’re here to provide the right training environment for your pup. For younger dogs, our puppy training is an ideal way to set your dog up for success early on.

The Takeaway

Correcting unwanted behaviors takes time, patience, and the right approach. At Sit Now Stay , we aim to empower dog owners with the skills they need to turn those frustrating moments into opportunities for growth and learning. By focusing on consistency and clear communication, we help dogs understand how to live happily and peacefully alongside their human families.

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Navigating Public Spaces with Your Dog: A Guide to Canine Citizenship

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 16:39:00 GMT

As dedicated dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS, we’ve seen countless clients eager to have their furry companions join them in bustling public settings. Whether it’s a trip to the park, a stroll through a bustling downtown, or a relaxing afternoon at a cafe, the desire to include our four-legged friends in our daily adventures is understandable. However, ensuring their safety and good behavior in these environments requires patience, consistency, and proper training.

Introducing a new pet into your household can be a joyful experience, but it also comes with its cHere are some invaluable tips for training your dog to be a good citizen in parks, cafes, and other busy places:

Start with Basic Obedience Training :

Before venturing into public spaces, it’s essential to establish a solid foundation of obedience training. Your dog should be taught basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it. These commands form the building blocks for good behavior in any situation.

Gradual Exposure to New Environments :

Introduce your dog to new environments gradually. Start with quiet, low-traffic areas and gradually work your way up to busier settings. This gradual exposure helps your dog acclimate to different stimuli and reduces the likelihood of overwhelming them.

Practice Focus and Attention :

In bustling environments, distractions abound. Teach your dog to focus on you despite the surrounding distractions by practicing attention exercises. Use high-value treats and positive reinforcement to encourage your dog to maintain eye contact and listen to your commands even in busy surroundings.

Socialization is Key :

Exposing your dog to various people, animals, and environments from a young age is crucial for their social development. Enroll your pup in puppy socialization classes or arrange playdates with other friendly dogs to help them become comfortable and well-adjusted around unfamiliar faces and furry friends.

Leash Manners Matter :

Proper leash manners are essential for a pleasant experience in public settings. Teach your dog to walk calmly on a loose leash without pulling or lunging. Utilize positive reinforcement techniques to reward desired behaviors, such as walking by your side or sitting when you stop.

Prepare for the Unexpected :

Public spaces can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to prepare your dog for unexpected situations. Expose them to loud noises, crowds, bicycles, and other potential distractions during training sessions to help them remain calm and composed when faced with these challenges in real life.

Enlist Professional Help :

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you or your canine companions may need professional guidance. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we offer personalized training programs tailored to address specific needs and goals. Our experienced trainers utilize techniques to help dogs thrive in various environments, including parks, cafes, and bustling city streets.

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we understand the importance of having a well-behaved and confident canine companion by your side, especially in public settings. Our comprehensive training programs empower both dogs and their owners to navigate the world together with ease and confidence.

Whether you’re looking to improve your dog’s leash manners, social skills, or overall obedience, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your training goals. With patience, consistency, and the guidance of our experienced trainers, you and your furry friend can enjoy countless adventures together while fostering a strong bond built on trust and mutual respect.

So, why wait? Take the first step toward a better relationship with your dog and explore the world together with confidence. Sit Now Stay Dog Training is here to support you every step of the way.

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Introduction of a New Pet: A Guide from Sit Now Stay Dog Training

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 15:51:00 GMT

As dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless heartwarming moments as families expand their furry brood by welcoming a new pet into their home. However, while the idea of adding a new member to the family is exciting, it’s essential to recognize the importance of preparation and training to ensure a smooth transition for both your current and new furry family members.

Introducing a new pet into your household can be a joyful experience, but it also comes with its challenges. Dogs, like humans, can experience stress and anxiety during times of change, and it’s crucial to approach the introduction process with care and patience. Here are some tips on how to prepare and train both your current and new furry family members for a harmonious coexistence:

Pre-Introduction Preparation:
Before bringing your new pet home, take the time to prepare your existing dog for the arrival of their new companion. This can include:
-Reinforcing basic obedience commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.”
-Gradually exposing your dog to the scent of the new pet through blankets or toys.
-Setting up separate living spaces initially to allow both pets to acclimate to each other’s presence without direct interaction.
Gradual Introduction:
When the time comes to introduce the new pet to your existing dog, do so gradually and in a controlled environment. Keep both pets on leashes during the initial meetings to maintain control and prevent any potential conflicts. Observe their body language closely and intervene if necessary to prevent any aggressive behavior.
Positive Reinforcement:
Utilize positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desirable behavior from both pets during the introduction process. Reward calm and friendly interactions with treats and praise, reinforcing the idea that good behavior results in positive outcomes.
Consistency and Routine:
Establishing a consistent routine for both pets can help reduce stress and anxiety and promote a sense of stability in their new environment. Stick to regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions to provide structure and familiarity.
Professional Guidance:
Enlisting the help of a professional dog trainer, such as Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS, can greatly facilitate the introduction process. Our private lessons are tailored to the specific needs of your pets and can provide personalized guidance and support every step of the way. Whether it’s teaching basic obedience skills or addressing behavioral issues, our experienced trainers are here to help you and your furry companions thrive.

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we understand the unique challenges that come with introducing a new pet into your household. Our goal is to empower pet owners with the knowledge and skills they need to foster strong bonds and harmonious relationships between their furry family members. With our private lessons, you can embark on this exciting journey with confidence, knowing that you have the support of a dedicated team of professionals every step of the way.

In conclusion, introducing a new pet into your household can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation and training. By following these tips and enlisting the help of Sit Now Stay Dog Training , you can ensure a smooth transition for both your current and new furry family member, paving the way for many years of love and companionship ahead.

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The Importance of Consistency in Dog Training: Maintaining Progress and Preventing Regression

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 16:01:00 GMT

As dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we’ve had the pleasure of working with countless dogs and their owners, guiding them through the rewarding journey of training and behavior modification. One of the most critical elements of successful dog training is consistency. Maintaining a consistent routine and approach not only helps solidify progress but also prevents regression, ensuring your dog remains well-behaved and responsive in various situations over time.

Why Consistency Matters

1. Clear Communication: Dogs thrive on clear communication and predictable patterns. When commands, rewards, and corrections are consistent, your dog quickly learns what is expected of them. Inconsistent signals can confuse your dog, leading to slower progress and frustration for both you and your pet.

2. Reinforcing Good Behavior: Consistency reinforces good behavior. By consistently rewarding desired behaviors, you strengthen the association between the behavior and the reward. This reinforcement encourages your dog to repeat the good behavior, solidifying their training.

3. Building Trust: A consistent routine builds trust between you and your dog. When your dog knows what to expect from you, they feel secure and are more likely to respond positively to training. This trust is crucial, especially in challenging situations where your dog needs to rely on your guidance.

4. Preventing Bad Habits: Inconsistency can lead to the development of bad habits. If a behavior is sometimes allowed and other times punished, your dog will be confused about what is acceptable. Consistently enforcing rules helps prevent the formation of undesirable behaviors and keeps your dog on the right track.

Tips for Maintaining Consistency

1. Set Clear Rules: Establish clear rules and stick to them. Whether it’s not allowing your dog on the furniture or always making them sit before meals, consistency in enforcing rules helps your dog understand boundaries.

2. Use the Same Commands: Use the same commands for specific behaviors. For example, always use “sit” for sitting down, not “sit down” or “sit now.” This clarity helps your dog associate the command with the action.

3. Consistent Reward System: Ensure everyone in the household follows the same reward system. If one person rewards jumping up while another person punishes it, your dog will be confused. Agree on a consistent approach to rewards and corrections.

4. Regular Training Sessions: Incorporate regular training sessions into your routine. Short, frequent sessions are more effective than sporadic, lengthy ones. Consistent practice helps reinforce learned behaviors and keeps your dog mentally stimulated.

How Sit Now Stay Can Help

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Overland Park, KS, we understand the importance of consistency in dog training. We offer various programs designed to suit different needs and lifestyles, including private lessons, day school, boarding school, and puppy training. Our experienced trainers work with you to establish a consistent routine, ensuring your dog’s progress is maintained and regression is prevented.

Private Lessons: Tailored to address specific behavioral issues and training goals, our private lessons provide one-on-one attention to ensure consistent progress.

Day School and Boarding School: Our day school and boarding school programs offer structured, consistent training environments where dogs receive intensive training and reinforcement throughout the day.

Puppy Training: Starting training early is crucial, and our puppy training programs lay a solid foundation for your pup’s future behavior. Consistency in early training sets the stage for a well-behaved adult dog.

Consistency is the cornerstone of successful dog training. By maintaining a consistent routine and approach, you can ensure your dog’s progress is steady and lasting. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we’re here to support you every step of the way , providing the guidance and structure needed to mold your dog’s behavior and strengthen your bond.

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Training for Off-Leash Control: How Sit Now Stay in Lenexa, KS Can Help Your Dog

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 15:34:00 GMT

As a dog trainer at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Lenexa, KS, I understand the importance of having a dog that listens to you and behaves well off-leash. Whether you’re exploring a park, hiking trails, or simply enjoying time in your backyard, having control over your dog without a leash is crucial for their safety and your peace of mind. At Sit Now Stay, we offer comprehensive programs designed to help you teach your dog to come when called and stay by your side without a leash.

Why Off-Leash Training is Important

Off-leash training isn’t just about convenience; it’s about building a deeper bond with your dog based on trust and communication. A well-trained dog is more likely to be safe in various environments and more enjoyable to be around. Here’s how Sit Now Stay can help you achieve that level of control and companionship with your dog.

Our Training Programs

Private Lessons: Private lessons are perfect for one-on-one attention tailored to your dog’s specific needs. Whether your dog has behavioral issues or you want to focus on off-leash training, our experienced trainers will work with you to create a customized plan. During these sessions, we’ll teach your dog to respond reliably to commands such as “come,” “stay,” and “heel” even when distractions are present.
Day School: Our day school program allows your dog to receive professional training while you’re at work or running errands. Drop your dog off in the morning and pick them up in the afternoon, knowing they’ve spent the day learning and practicing new skills. This program is ideal for busy pet parents who want their dogs to make consistent progress in a structured environment.
Boarding School: For more intensive training, our boarding school program offers an immersive experience. Your dog will stay with us for 1, 2, or 3 weeks undergoing daily training sessions. This concentrated approach helps accelerate learning and solidify behaviors, making it an excellent option for off-leash training. By the end of the program, your dog will be well on their way to being a reliable off-leash companion.
Puppy Training: Starting training early is key to preventing future behavioral problems. Our puppy training program focuses on socialization, basic commands, and foundational skills that will set your puppy up for success. Early training helps instill good habits and ensures your puppy grows into a well-behaved adult dog.

How We Teach Off-Leash Control

Teaching a dog to come when called and stay by your side without a leash involves several steps:

Building a Strong Recall : We start by teaching your dog to come when called in a controlled environment with minimal distractions. Consistency is crucial here – rewarding your dog for responding correctly.
Gradual Increase in Distractions: Once your dog reliably comes when called, we gradually introduce more distractions. This could be other dogs, people, or interesting smells. The goal is to ensure your dog listens to you even when there are tempting distractions around.

Why Choose Sit Now Stay?

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we believe in personalized, effective training methods that work for both you and your dog. Our experienced trainers are dedicated to helping you achieve your training goals, whether through private lessons, day school, boarding school, or puppy training. We focus on consistency, ensuring your dog learns to listen and behave without the need for a leash.

Ready to take the next step in training your dog for off-leash control? Contact Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Lenexa, KS, today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you and your furry friend achieve a happy, harmonious relationship.

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Dealing with Leash Reactivity: Techniques for Managing and Training Dogs

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:29:00 GMT

As professional dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS, we often encounter dogs who display leash reactivity. This behavior can be stressful for both the dog and the owner, but with the right techniques and training programs, it is possible to manage and reduce these reactions. At Sit Now Stay, we offer various programs including Private Lessons, Day School, Boarding School, and Puppy Training to help mold your dog’s behavior and enhance your bond.

Understanding Leash Reactivity

Leash reactivity refers to a dog’s tendency to overreact to stimuli such as other dogs, people, or vehicles while on a leash. This overreaction can manifest as barking, lunging, growling, or even biting. It’s essential to understand that leash reactivity is often a result of fear, frustration, or excitement, and not necessarily aggression.

Techniques for Managing Leash Reactivity

Stay Calm and Consistent
Dogs can sense our emotions. Staying calm and composed during walks helps set a positive tone for your dog. Consistency in your reactions and commands will also help your dog understand what is expected of them.
Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning
Gradually exposing your dog to the trigger (other dogs, people, etc.) at a distance where they are comfortable and rewarding them for calm behavior can help reduce reactivity. Over time, decrease the distance while continuing to reward positive behavior.
Redirecting Attention
Teach your dog to focus on you instead of the trigger. Commands like “watch me” or “look” can be helpful. Reward your dog with treats or praise when they successfully focus on you.
Use of Positive Reinforcement
Rewarding your dog for calm behavior reinforces that this is the desired response. Treats, toys, and praise are excellent motivators.
Teach Alternative Behaviors
Training your dog to perform alternative behaviors like sitting or walking away from the trigger can help manage reactivity. Commands such as “sit,” “stay,” or “heel” can be useful in redirecting your dog’s energy.

Our Training Programs at Sit Now Stay

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we offer tailored programs to address leash reactivity and other behavioral issues:

Private Lessons
One-on-one sessions with a trainer to address specific concerns and develop a customized training plan.
Day School
Drop your dog off for a day of training and socialization with other dogs, under the supervision of our experienced trainers.
Boarding School
An intensive training program where your dog stays with us for an extended period, receiving daily training sessions and socialization opportunities.
Puppy Training
Early training for puppies to prevent the development of reactivity and other behavioral issues. This program focuses on socialization, basic commands, and housebreaking.

Conclusion

Dealing with leash reactivity requires patience, consistency, and the right techniques. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we are committed to helping you and your dog overcome these challenges through our various training programs. Whether you choose Private Lessons, Day School, Boarding School, or Puppy Training, our experienced trainers will work with you to mold your dog’s behavior and improve your walks together.

If you’re in the Kansas City, KS area and need help managing your dog’s leash reactivity, contact us at Sit Now Stay Dog Training . Together, we can transform stressful walks into enjoyable adventures for you and your furry friend.

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The Positive of Training on Your Dog’s Overall Demeanor and Quality of Life

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 01:40:00 GMT

Owning a dog is one of life’s greatest joys. These loyal companions bring endless amounts of love, laughter, and companionship into our lives. However, without proper training, dogs can sometimes develop behaviors that can be challenging and even stressful for both the pet and the owner. That’s where Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS comes in. Our premier dog training service offers personalized and professional training that not only improves your dog’s behavior but also enhances their overall quality of life.

The Importance of Proper Dog Training

Proper training is essential for any dog, regardless of their age, breed, or size. Well-trained dogs are happier, healthier, and more relaxed, which makes them better companions. Here are some key benefits of proper dog training:

1. Strengthened Bond

Training your dog helps to build a stronger bond between you and your furry friend. The process of teaching and learning commands creates a sense of teamwork and trust. As your dog learns to follow your guidance, they become more confident and secure in their environment.

2. Improved Behavior

Training addresses a wide range of behavioral issues such as barking, chewing, jumping, and aggression. By learning what is expected of them, dogs can better navigate the human world, leading to fewer misunderstandings and a more peaceful home environment.

3. Enhanced Safety

A well-trained dog is a safer dog. Commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel” are not just for show; they can prevent accidents and keep your dog safe in potentially dangerous situations. For instance, a dog that responds reliably to “come” can be called away from a busy street or an unfriendly animal.

4. Better Socialization

Training helps dogs become more sociable with both humans and other animals. A well-socialized dog is less likely to experience fear and anxiety in new situations, making outings and social interactions more enjoyable for everyone.

How Sit Now Stay Can Help

Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS, offers a variety of training programs designed to meet the unique needs of each dog and owner. Here’s how we can help transform your dog’s behavior and enhance their quality of life:

Customized Training Programs

Every dog is different, and Sit Now Stay understands that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. We offer customized training programs tailored to the specific needs and personality of your dog. Whether you have a rambunctious puppy or an older dog with ingrained habits, we can create a plan that works for you.

Experienced Trainers

The trainers at Sit Now Stay are experienced professionals who use techniques that encourage good behavior. We use a proven method that builds a strong, trusting relationship between you and your dog. Our approach not only improves behavior but also boosts your dog’s confidence and happiness.

Support for Owners

Training isn’t just about teaching the dog; it’s also about educating the owner. Sit Now Stay provides support and guidance to help you understand your dog’s behavior and how to effectively communicate with them. This ensures that the training is consistent and effective, even outside of formal sessions.

Convenient and Flexible

Located in Kansas City, KS, Sit Now Stay offers convenient and flexible training schedules to fit your busy lifestyle. We understand that life can be hectic, so we work with you to find times that are convenient and conducive to learning.

Contact Us

Investing in proper training for your dog is one of the best decisions you can make as a pet owner. With the help of Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS, you can ensure that your dog is well-behaved, happy, and healthy. The positive impact of training extends beyond just good behavior; it enhances the bond between you and your dog and significantly improves their quality of life. So, if you’re looking to create a harmonious and joyful relationship with your furry friend, consider the expert services of Sit Now Stay . Your dog—and your peace of mind—will thank you.

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Empowering Owners Through Training: A Guide to Harmonious Pet Ownership with Sit Now Stay Dog Training

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 19:17:00 GMT

As dog trainers at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless transformations in the relationships between dogs and their owners. More than just teaching obedience commands, our approach at Sit Now Stay is focused on empowering owners with the knowledge and skills they need to communicate effectively with their pets. This philosophy not only fosters well-behaved dogs but also cultivates harmonious households where both humans and canines thrive.

Understanding Canine Behavior

One of the core principles at Sit Now Stay is understanding canine behavior. Dogs communicate primarily through body language and responses to stimuli in their environment. Many behavioral issues stem from miscommunication or misunderstanding between dogs and their owners. By educating owners about dog behavior, we empower them to interpret their pet’s actions and reactions more accurately.

Effective Communication Strategies

Effective communication is key to a well-behaved dog. Sit Now Stay emphasizes techniques that reward desired behaviors. This approach encourages dogs to repeat behaviors that earn praise or treats, creating a cycle of positive interaction between owner and pet. Through personalized training sessions, owners learn how to use voice commands, gestures, and rewards effectively to convey their expectations to their dogs.

Building Trust and Respect

Trust and respect form the foundation of any successful relationship, including the one between a dog and its owner. At Sit Now Stay, we teach owners how to establish themselves as leaders in a way that builds trust and respect rather than fear. This leadership role helps dogs feel secure and reduces anxiety, leading to improved behavior both at home and in public settings.

Tailored Training Programs

Every dog is unique, and so are their training needs. Sit Now Stay offers tailored training programs that address specific behavior challenges such as leash pulling, excessive barking, or aggression. Our trainers work closely with each client to develop a customized training plan that fits their dog’s temperament and the owner’s lifestyle.

Support and Guidance

The journey to a well-behaved dog doesn’t end after the training sessions. Sit Now Stay provides ongoing support and guidance to ensure that owners continue to see progress long after the initial training period. Whether through follow-up sessions, group classes, or phone consultations, our goal is to empower owners with the confidence and skills needed to maintain consistent training practices.

The Sit Now Stay Difference

What sets Sit Now Stay apart is our commitment to empowering owners through education. By teaching effective communication and training techniques, we enable owners to build strong, lasting bonds with their dogs based on mutual respect and understanding. Our approach not only improves behavior but also enhances the overall quality of life for both pets and their families.

Join Us at Sit Now Stay

If you’re ready to transform your relationship with your dog and create a harmonious household, we invite you to join us at Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS. Together, we can empower you with the tools and knowledge you need to become a confident and effective dog owner. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a happier, well-behaved dog and a more fulfilling partnership.

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Staying Accountable in Your Training Journey: Tips on Setting Goals, Tracking Progress, and Staying Motivated

Tue, 28 May 2024 23:57:00 GMT

Embarking on a training journey with your dog is a rewarding adventure that strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. However, it can sometimes be challenging to stay motivated and on track. At Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS, we understand these challenges and are here to help you stay accountable, set meaningful goals, track your progress, and achieve the desired results. Whether you choose our private lessons or online puppy training, Sit Now Stay is committed to supporting you every step of the way.

Setting Goals: The First Step to Success

Setting clear, achievable goals is essential for a successful training journey. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Define Your Objectives : What do you want to achieve with your dog? Is it basic obedience, advanced tricks, or addressing specific behavioral issues? Having a clear objective helps you focus your efforts.
Break It Down : Large goals can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. For instance, if your goal is to teach your dog to stay, start with a few seconds and gradually increase the duration.
Be Realistic : Set goals that are challenging yet attainable. Consider your dog’s breed, age, and temperament. Unrealistic goals can lead to frustration for both you and your dog.

Tracking Progress: Measure and Celebrate Success

Keeping track of your progress is crucial for staying motivated. Here’s how you can effectively monitor your journey:

Training Journal : Maintain a journal to record each training session. Note what exercises you worked on, your dog’s response, and any improvements or setbacks.
Video Recordings : Recording your training sessions can provide valuable insights. You can review the footage to spot areas for improvement and celebrate your successes.
Regular Assessments : Periodically assess your progress against your goals. Are you moving forward as expected? Do you need to adjust your approach? Regular check-ins help you stay on track.

Staying Motivated: Keep the Momentum Going

Staying motivated throughout your training journey can be challenging, especially when progress seems slow. Here are some strategies to keep your spirits high:

Celebrate Milestones : Every small victory is a step towards your larger goal. Celebrate these milestones to keep yourself and your dog motivated.
Stay Positive : Focus on the positive aspects of your training sessions. Instead of dwelling on what didn’t go well, highlight the improvements and what your dog did right.
Get Support : Sometimes, all you need is a little encouragement. Join a community of dog owners, share your experiences, and learn from others. At Sit Now Stay, our trainers are always here to provide the support and guidance you need.

How Sit Now Stay Can Help

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we offer a variety of services designed to support you and your dog in your training journey. Here’s how we can help:

Private Lessons : Our one-on-one sessions are tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn behavioral issue or looking to fine-tune obedience skills, our expert trainers provide personalized guidance to help you achieve your goals.
Online Puppy Training : Our online programs are perfect for those who prefer the flexibility of training at home. These courses are comprehensive, easy to follow, and designed to help you and your puppy succeed. With video tutorials, written guides, and live support, you’ll have everything you need to train your puppy effectively.
Ongoing Support : Training doesn’t end when the session is over. We offer continuous support through follow-up consultations, progress assessments, and additional resources to ensure you and your dog stay on track.

Why Choose Sit Now Stay?

Based in Kansas City, KS, Sit Now Stay Dog Training is committed to helping you and your dog succeed. Our experienced trainers use special techniques to create a fun, effective, and rewarding training experience. We understand that every dog and owner is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.

By choosing Sit Now Stay, you’re not just enrolling in a training program – you’re joining a community dedicated to helping you and your dog thrive. With our expertise and your dedication, we can achieve great things together.

Ready to start your training journey? Contact us today to learn more about our private lessons and online puppy training programs. Let Sit Now Stay be your partner in achieving your training goals and building a lifelong bond with your furry friend.

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How Sit Now Stay Dog Training Can Help Unlock Your Dog’s Natural Abilities

Fri, 24 May 2024 15:05:00 GMT

Welcome to Sit Now Stay Dog Training in Kansas City, KS! As dedicated dog trainers, we are thrilled to share how our customized training methods can transform your furry friend into the well-behaved and confident companion you’ve always dreamed of. At Sit Now Stay, we believe every dog has unique talents and abilities just waiting to be unlocked. Through our diverse range of programs—including Private Lessons, Day School, Boarding School, and Online and In-Home Puppy Training—we provide personalized training solutions that cater to the specific needs of both you and your dog.

Private Lessons: Tailored Training at Your Convenience

Private lessons are the cornerstone of our personalized approach. We understand that every dog is different, with distinct behaviors, strengths, and areas for improvement. During these one-on-one sessions, our experienced trainers work closely with you and your dog to address specific challenges and goals. Whether you’re dealing with obedience issues, leash pulling, or socialization, our private lessons are designed to provide targeted, effective solutions.

Benefits of Private Lessons:

Customized Training Plans: Each lesson is tailored to address your dog’s unique needs.
Flexible Scheduling: Choose times that fit your busy lifestyle.
Focused Attention: One-on-one training ensures your dog gets the attention they deserve.

Day School: Consistent Learning with Daily Training

For dog owners seeking regular, structured training without the need for boarding, our Day School program is the perfect solution. Drop your dog off in the morning and pick up a tired, well-trained pup in the evening. Our Day School program offers a balanced mix of training, socialization, and playtime, ensuring your dog stays mentally and physically stimulated throughout the day.

Benefits of Day School:

Daily Reinforcement: Consistent training helps solidify good behaviors.
Socialization Opportunities: Your dog gets to interact with other dogs in a controlled environment.
Convenience: No need to stay overnight—ideal for local dog owners.

Boarding School: Immersive Training for Lasting Results

Our Boarding School program is designed for those who want a comprehensive training experience for their dogs. By staying with us for an extended period, your dog will receive intensive training sessions, ensuring they learn and retain new skills effectively. This immersive environment allows our trainers to work on a wide range of behaviors and commands, from basic obedience to advanced skills.

Benefits of Boarding School:

Immersive Learning: Continuous training leads to faster and more consistent results.
Professional Care: Your dog is in the hands of experienced trainers 24/7.
Convenience: Perfect for busy owners or those out of town.

Puppy Training: Building a Strong Foundation

Puppyhood is a critical time for setting the stage for a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Our Puppy Training programs focus on socialization, basic obedience, and preventing common behavior issues. We use techniques to ensure your puppy develops a love for learning and a strong bond with you.

Benefits of Puppy Training:

Early Socialization: Helps your puppy become comfortable with new people, animals, and environments.
Basic Obedience: Teaching essential commands like sit, stay, and come.
Behavioral Prevention: Addressing potential issues before they become problematic.

Why Choose Sit Now Stay?

At Sit Now Stay, our mission is to help dogs and their owners build strong, harmonious relationships. Our customized training methods are designed to unlock your dog’s full potential, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Here’s why Sit Now Stay stands out:

Experienced Trainers: Our team consists of highly skilled professionals passionate about dog training.
Positive Reinforcement: We use humane, reward-based training methods to encourage desirable behaviors.
Comprehensive Programs: From puppies to adult dogs, we offer training solutions for every stage of your dog’s life.
Community Support: Join a network of dog owners who share your commitment to responsible pet ownership.

Unleashing your dog’s full potential is a journey, and at Sit Now Stay Dog Training, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn pup or a seasoned canine, our customized training programs are designed to bring out the best in your furry friend. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you and your dog achieve your training goals and enjoy a happier life together.

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Unlocking Vitality: Keeping Your Dog Agile with Muscle Mutts

Thu, 16 May 2024 15:06:00 GMT

Just like humans, all dogs benefit from staying physically active and mentally engaged. However, traditional training methods may not always suffice, especially for senior pups who may have mobility issues or joint stiffness. Sit Now Stay , in Kansas City, KS, offers a specialized fitness program called Muscle Mutts which is designed to cater to the unique needs of all dogs including older or obese dogs. All dogs could benefit from physical training. Muscle Mutts is more than just a training regimen; it’s a holistic approach to canine health and happiness.

Understanding Muscle Mutts

Muscle Mutts is not your typical dog training program. It’s a comprehensive fitness regimen tailored specifically for furry friends. By incorporating a variety of activities, Muscle Mutts aims to improve the flexibility, strength, endurance, and overall well-being of dogs.

Here’s a glimpse into what Muscle Mutts entails:

Swimming : Low-impact and highly beneficial, swimming provides a full-body workout for dogs without putting stress on their joints. Muscle Mutts utilizes swimming as a therapeutic exercise to improve muscle tone and cardiovascular health in older dogs.
Core Exercises : Just like humans, dogs benefit from a strong core. Muscle Mutts incorporates core-strengthening exercises to improve stability, balance, and posture in older dogs, helping them maintain mobility and prevent injuries.
Treadmill Workouts : For dogs who may not be able to engage in vigorous outdoor activities, the treadmill offers a controlled environment for exercise. Whether it’s walking or running, treadmill workouts are customized to suit each dog’s fitness level and mobility.
Endurance Training : Building stamina is crucial for dogs to keep up with daily activities and maintain an active lifestyle. Muscle Mutts includes endurance training to gradually increase a dog’s stamina and energy levels, ensuring they stay vibrant and agile as they grow and age.
Stretching : Flexibility is key to preventing muscle stiffness and improving range of motion in dogs. Muscle Mutts incorporates stretching exercises to keep joints supple and muscles limber, promoting overall mobility and comfort.

The Sit Now Stay Difference

At Sit Now Stay, based in Kansas City, KS, we go above and beyond traditional dog training by offering specialized programs like Muscle Mutts. What sets us apart is our commitment to individualized care techniques.

Here’s how Sit Now Stay helps clients and their furry friends:

Personalized Approach : Every dog is unique, especially when it comes to fitness needs. Sit Now Stay takes a personalized approach to each dog’s training, tailoring exercises to address specific concerns and goals.
Expert Guidance : The trainers at Sit Now Stay are not only passionate about dogs but also highly skilled in canine fitness and behavior. Clients can trust that their furry friends are in good hands with experienced professionals who understand the nuances of training dogs who need physical help.
Continued Support : The journey to a healthier, happier dog doesn’t end after the training sessions. Sit Now Stay provides ongoing support and guidance to clients, offering tips and resources to help them maintain their dog’s progress long-term.

It’s crucial to prioritize your dog’s health and well-being to ensure they enjoy a fulfilling and active life. With Muscle Mutts, Sit Now Stay in Kansas City, KS, offers a lifeline for canines and their owners, helping them stay flexible, physically active, and well-behaved through specialized fitness training.

Whether it’s swimming, core exercises, treadmill workouts, endurance training, or stretching, Muscle Mutts provides a holistic approach to dog care, fostering strength, vitality, and happiness in our beloved furry friends. So, if you’re looking to unlock your older dog’s full potential, join the Muscle Mutts program at Sit Now Stay and embark on a journey to a healthier, happier canine companion.

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What is Laser Pointer Syndrome in Dogs?

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 13:06:00 GMT

Many people think that laser pointers will provide great entertainment for dogs. It’s an endless game where you don’t have to leave the couch to play with them. However, playing with a laser pointer can actually cause significant behavioral and mental health problems in your dog.

What Is Laser Pointer Syndrome?

A laser pointer triggers your dog’s prey drive and thus, their desire to chase. However, your dog has no ability to actually catch the little red dot. Dogs will thus simply get frustrated because the game has no closure. Dogs can keep looking for the red dot even after you have put the toy away.

This can result in “laser pointer syndrome,” in which your dog just keeps frantically searching for the light. They may stare at the last location they saw it, react to flashes of light, and develop high levels of anxiety.

Causes of Laser Pointer Syndrome in Dogs

Dogs don’t just need to chase something, they need to catch it. Balls, frisbees, and other toys are perfect for dogs because they can catch and “kill” the toy and then present it to the rest of the pack proudly. When your dog plays fetch they are “hunting for the pack.”

When the dog can’t catch the laser pointer, they develop massive levels of frustration. Another thing that can cause frustration is teasing your dog with a “ghost ball.” Pretending to throw a ball but not actually doing so will eventually annoy your dog.

Working sniffer dogs can also develop something similar to laser pointer syndrome if they don’t make successful finds. Because of this, they are routinely given practice sessions in which they get to actually find something.

There does appear to be a genetic component. Dogs with high prey drive are more likely to get laser pointer syndrome, and some vets believe that it occurs in dogs with an underlying susceptibility to OCD.

How To Diagnose Laser Pointer Syndrome in Dogs

Laser pointer syndrome resembles a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Watch out for these behaviors:

Staring at or constantly revisiting the last place they saw the red dot.
Pouncing on lights or shadows.
Chasing reflections to the point where they cause injury.
Chasing lights rather than eating or drinking.

Treatment Options for Laser Pointer Syndrome in Dogs

There is no straightforward treatment for laser pointer syndrome. The best thing you can do is redirect the urge to other, healthier, sports or games . If your dog is a smarter breed, then they may need a “job.” Dogs with high prey drive often enjoy lure coursing, where they do eventually get to catch the “prey.”

The best way to treat laser pointer syndrome is to keep it from developing in the first place.

Prevention Tips for Laser Pointer Syndrome in Dogs

The best way to prevent laser pointer syndrome is never to play with your dog with a laser pointer. If you have children and a laser pointer, make sure they don’t give in to the temptation. Young children should, in any case, not be permitted to play with laser pointers as they can damage their vision or somebody else’s.

If you play scent games with a dog, always finish the session by letting them find something. Don’t tease your dog either by only pretending to throw a ball.

If you don’t feel like throwing a ball and chasing around with your dog, a flirt pole can be useful. These are similar to fishing poles for cats and consist of a stick and string. When playing with a flirt pole with a dog, do not lift it so the dog leaps off the ground to get it; this can result in injury from too much jumping.

When to See a Vet for Your Dog’s Potential Symptoms of Laser Pointer Syndrome

You should see a vet if your dog is injuring themselves chasing lights, or if they are ignoring food, water, and social activity. Your vet can give tips for management and potentially anti-anxiety medication, which can help some dogs.

Give Your Dog Something To Focus On At Sit Now Stay

Laser pointer syndrome is most often caused by playing with a dog using a laser pointer. Because of the way a dog’s prey drive is, this can result in extreme frustration and OCD-like symptoms. You should not use a laser pointer as a dog toy, but stick to throwing them balls, etc.

If your dog has laser pointer syndrome, a good trainer can help you redirect them to healthier activities. Contact Sit Now Stay Dog Training for help.

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Can Dogs Eat Guava? What You Need To Know

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:24:00 GMT

So you’ve seen your lovely pup drinking some guava juice or munching a guava fruit, and you’re worried if it has any negative effects. Can dogs eat guava? Well, the good news is that dogs can eat guava in moderation.

Guavas are exotic fruits that offer vitamins and minerals to dogs. You can offer different kinds of guavas to dogs as fruits. However, you should watch out for the excess amount of sugar and curbs because excess guava can lead to obesity.

Overview of Guava and Its Nutritional Benefits

Guava is an exotic fruit packed with different minerals and vitamins that can promote your dog’s overall health. Some of the nutritional benefits of dogs eating guava include:

Enhancing Metabolism

Guava contains vitamins A and K that help boost metabolism, promote eye health, and promote strong bones. Guava is also a rich source of essential nutrients such as calcium, potassium, Phosphorus, and magnesium, which all help keep your dog healthy.

Boosting the Immune System

Your dog needs a strong immune system to keep it free of various illnesses. Guava contains antioxidants and Vitamin C, which all help boost the immune system. The antioxidants help keep hazardous substances from entering your dog’s body, ensuring they’re healthy all the time.

Guava is Rich in Fiber and Iron

The fiber in guava keeps your dog’s digestive system on track. It prevents problems such as constipation and ensures regular bowel movements. Iron helps make red blood cells and hemoglobin which your dog needs to transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. If you give your dog occasional guava treats, they’ll not need fiber or iron from external sources.

Potential Health Risks for Dogs When Eating Guava

While dogs can eat guava without experiencing any problems, overindulgence can surely cause trouble. Eating too much guava can cause stomach issues and diarrhea.

Since guava also contains sugars and carbs, overeating might lead to weight issues and obesity in dogs . Your dog might also suffer blood sugar issues from eating too much guava.

Lastly, eating guava can cause allergies in some dogs. If you suspect that your dog may be allergic to guavas, stop giving them.

How to Prepare Guava Safely for Your Dog

Guavas can be dangerous to dogs if you don’t use caution when preparing the fruit. To ensure your dog safely eats these fruits, here is how you should prepare your guava:

First, ensure you get the right amount of guavas for your dog. Too much is not recommended as it may cause digestive distress.
Wash the guavas in running water to ensure they’re free from dirt
Remove the rind using a sharp knife and separate it from the fruit
Cut the guava in half and remove the seeds
Cut the fruit into tiny chunks to prevent a choking hazard

Alternatives to Feeding Your Dog Guava

Even though guava has benefits for dogs, you can’t give it to them regularly. Some good fruits and vegetables that offer the same nutrients as Guavas include:

Bananas
Pears
Watermelon
Blueberries
Tangerines

Tips on Introducing New Foods into a Dog’s Diet Safely

Dogs can react negatively to a new food if you don’t introduce it gradually. If you’re planning to introduce your furry friend to a new diet, here are some tips for doing it safely.

Add the new diet to their regular meals
Make sure the food has some aroma because dogs love good smell
Give them the new diet before their main meals or after exercise
Change their diet gradually until they get used to it
Maintain their regular feeding schedules

Signs of Allergic Reactions in Dogs After Eating Certain Foods, Including Guavas

Dogs experience various food allergies, including those they get from eating guava. Some signs of food allergies in dogs include skin reactions, itchy paws and ears, and digestive distress. More advanced symptoms of food allergies may include weight loss, hyperactivity, weakness, and aggression.

If you suspect your dog is allergic to certain foods, give them small portions to see how they react later.

Know Your Dog’s Food

So, can dogs eat guava? The answer is yes, but in moderation. Guavas have essential nutrients and vitamins that are healthy for dogs. However, eating too many guavas can cause digestive and sugar issues. Also, make sure you prepare the guavas well by washing and cutting them into tiny issues to ensure safety.

It’s always important to pay attention to what your dog is eating and know how to properly prepare food to give them the right nutritional benefits.

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we have all the answers concerning your dog’s diet, health, and training needs. Contact us to learn more about how to take better care of your furry friend.

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Does My Dog Need a Coat in the Winter?

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 13:35:00 GMT

When the harsh winter weather starts to roll in, many people get into their favorite winter gear to keep warm, but what about our furry friends? Many dog owners might wonder if they need to get a coat for their dog as those colder days begin to set in.

In this post, Sit Now Stay will go over the different variables that come into play when deciding if your dog needs a coat, and at what temperature should you be doing so.

Different breeds of dogs have different tolerance levels for cold weather. Smaller dogs tend to get colder faster than larger breeds and may need some extra coverage during cold snaps. Short-haired or thin-coated dogs will also benefit from a coat or sweater when going outside in the winter. The general rule of thumb is that if you’re uncomfortable without a coat, your dog probably is too.

At What Temperature Does My Dog Need a Coat?

Well, dogs may not get as cold as humans, but they still need protection from the elements when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, your pup should wear a coat or sweater if they’re going outside for any length of time. If the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s best to keep them inside as much as possible.

According to the American Kennel Club , dogs can get hypothermia or frostbite even if they have a thick coat. So, whenever the temperature drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, know that your pup also needs some extra layer of protection.

Signs Your Dog Needs a Coat

Sometimes you might not notice right away that the temperatures are below what your furry friend can tolerate. But most of the time, your dog’s behavior will be enough indication that they need a coat. Some signs that show your pup is feeling the cold include:

Shivering
Being less active
Not wanting to go outside
Being distressed and anxious
Limping
Hiding behind things
Barking or moaning

If you see any of these signs in your pooch, it’s a sign that they need a coat or sweater.

Which Dog Are Most Likely to Need a Winter Coat?

Some dog breeds, such as Greyhounds, Chihuahuas, and Pit Bulls, are more susceptible to the cold than others. But even dog breeds that can withstand cold temperatures , such as Siberians and Malamutes, may need a coat or sweater when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Some of the factors that make some dogs require a winter coat include the following:

The Pup’s Age: Puppies and older dogs may need extra warmth due to their age. The younger and senior dogs tend to have weaker immune systems , and freezing temperatures may expose them to more health risks.
The Type of Coat: Dogs with thin or short coats may need an extra layer of protection against the cold weather, while those with a thick double coat may be able to withstand lower temperatures.
The Dog’s Activity Level: A pup that is active outside for long periods may get colder faster and require a coat. Before you go out with your furry friend, make sure he is properly dressed for the weather.
The Pup’s Size: Smaller dogs lose heat faster than larger breeds and may require a coat more often. This also applies to short-legged breeds that are much closer to the ground hence, exposed to snow.
Dogs With Medical Conditions: The dog’s ill health may interfere with its ability to regulate its body temperature. If your pooch has a medical condition, it’s best to talk to your vet about the type of coat or sweater that is best for them.

Keep Your Pup Warm this Winter!

In the end, as long as it’s cold enough for you to need extra protection, then your pup probably does too. So make sure they are properly dressed for the weather with a coat or sweater when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help keep your pup safe and comfortable during their time outdoors.

And remember, dog training doesn’t have to stop in the winter. Contact us at Sit Now Stay to learn about our training programs this winter. We can also help you find the perfect coat for your pup if you need one!

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Toys to Mentally Stimulate Dogs

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 14:06:00 GMT

Did you know that 15 minutes of mental stimulation is akin to 30 minutes of physical workouts? Like humans, mental stimulation not only helps in boosting your dog’s happiness and health, but it bolsters their confidence and encourages them to engage in their natural behaviors. Additionally, it reduces anxiety, boredom, and frustration; which is why we recommend using interactive dog toys to your advantage, as they are a great way to let your dog have some fun and be active when you can’t make it out to the park.

While interactive dog toys can be great for mental stimulation, nothing can replace the power and value of engaging physically in interactive play with your furry friend. But if you’re occupied or unavailable, interactive toys are an excellent supplement. So, if you’re looking for the best toys to mentally stimulate dogs, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few of our top picks:

Mentally Stimulating Dog Toys

Kong Classic

The Kong Classic is one of the most popular toy selections for dogs. It’s durable, interactive, and straightforward, so it’s ideal for any dog. Just place some of your dog’s treats in the toy or spread the butter around the interior. This helps your dog stay engaged and is very encouraging since your dog gets rewarded with a treat anytime they play.

It’s also a good option if your dog requires a food-based incentive to play. If this is your first time buying an interactive toy, the Kong Classic is a great toy to start with. It’s fun, and will also help you determine if your furry friend is interested in interactive toys or something more engaging, like puzzle toys .

AFP Interactive Food Maze Dog Toy

Unlike the other toys listed in this guide, this is not a ball or something to chew on. Similar to a doggy puzzle, this food maze is quite interactive and ideal if you want to teach your furry friend to eat slower. Plus, dogs really enjoy spending their time wiggling, biting, and licking treats out from food mazes. The major benefit of the AFP Interactive Food Maze Dog Toy is that it prevents your dog from scattering food around the house or outside. So, if you don’t want to keep cleaning after their mess, this might be your solution.

Nina Ottosson Hide N Slide Puzzle

A step up from a normal slow feeder maze, this puzzle tasks your dog with moving a series of levers and obstacles to find their hidden treats. Your dog will use their nose to sniff out what pockets still have treats as they work to uncover them all. Moving certain levers one way will block the others from moving, so this toy will definitely get your dog thinking.

Aussie Dog Home Alone

Is your dog usually left at home alone for an extended period? If so, this could be the perfect toy for your dog. The Aussie Dog Home Alone has an awesome design that allows you to tie it to a tree or pillar and leave it for your dog to play with. Just fill the ball with dog treats or dry food so it makes a rattling sound when moved. The more your dog plays with the toy; the more treats are rewarded. As an extra perk, the design can replicate a tug-of-war situation, so the dog never feels bored when home alone.

Bob-A-Lot Treat Dispenser

This treat dispensing toy will keep your dog busy for a long time. Adjustable openings at the top and bottom of the Bob-A-Lot from Starmark let owners insert different types of food or treats, while also controlling the difficulty level for your dog. With its weighted ant-slip bottom, the Bob-A-Lot will wobble around your floor as your dog pushes it around trying to make treats fall out.

There’s enough room to do your dog’s whole meal at different intervals or it can be used for just a fun snack.

Keep Your Dog Happy & Healthy

All these toys have significant and multiple benefits for dogs, but some differ, so you need to understand your dog’s preference. It’s also important to leave them loads of drinking water if you’ll be filling their toys with treats. As one last tip, when you return home to your furry friend, don’t forget to praise them for being good while you were away and take them for a walk. Remember that your day might have been busy, but their day was spent thinking and waiting for you to return.

At Sit Now Stay , we offer expert advice and training sessions, so feel free to contact us anytime to learn more about properly stimulating your dog’s mental health and managing its behavior and other health habits. With the right toys and proper training, your dog should be just fine and back to its normal behavior. Call us today to learn more about our training programs!

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Can My Dog Swim With An Ear Infection?

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 14:20:00 GMT

Most dogs are just born loving water, and who can blame them? It’s fun and healthy, and there’s also something mesmerizing about splashing in cool refreshing waters on a nice day, especially if it’s hot outside. Moreover, swimming is a great exercise for both dogs and us, so you may need to buy a life jacket and teach your canine friend how to swim.

However, one aspect we often fail to consider is how comfortable your dog is swimming. Like many things, dogs can’t tell us if they are uncomfortable or hurt. Pets also don’t understand the cause of the illness, so they may dive back into the source. That’s why you constantly need to check your pet’s health to protect them from further harm, like ear infections in dogs.

Moreover, ear infections in dogs are common and treatable, so there is no need to panic if your dog suffers from it. But if you’re wondering if your dog can swim with an ear infection or how to protect your dog from ear infections, don’t worry because you’re not alone. To provide insight, we will explore common symptoms and preventative measures as we discuss more concerning ear infections to ensure your dog lives a healthy and happy life.

Can My Dog Swim With an Ear Infection?

Your dog can swim with an ear infection, but it’s really not recommended. Still, not every dog that goes swimming or gets water in its ears is prone to an ear infection. In fact, most dogs don’t develop ear infections from swimming. Usually, dogs that develop these infections have an underlying allergy to food or other environmental factors like pollen and grass. In addition, the water might be contaminated with various bacteria commonly found in the ear canal . For instance, E.coli is a major bacterium that grows in water, especially in hot seasons.

Why Should I Protect My Dog’s Ears When Swimming?

Most dog lovers never protect their dog’s ears when bathing or swimming, which may lead to ear infections. Similar to humans, dogs’ ears also have a coat of yeast and bacteria that helps protect us from harm. However, a dog’s ear canals are L shaped, making it hard for harmful substances to reach your dog’s inner ear.

But when water reaches the lower area of the ear canal, it may be difficult to remove the water. The water basically creates a moist environment, allowing the yeast and bacteria to grow profusely. In contrast, outer ear infections occur when the skin inside the ear canal is inflamed, which can even lead to further harm, like hearing loss. As a result, we recommend protecting your dog’s ears when swimming and being aware of the symptoms as well.

What Are Tell-Tale Signs of Ear Infections for Dogs

Unlike most infections, ear infections for dogs tend to be sneaky. Sometimes they have common and clear symptoms, and sometimes they have less, milder symptoms. Either way, if your dog shows any signs of ear infection , it’s advisable to seek medical attention from your veterinarian immediately. Some of the common symptoms to look for include the following:

Odor coming from the infected ear
Dark discharge
Twitching ears
Redness of skin inside the ears
Scratching the ears
Shaking the head etc.

Skin and ear infections for dogs can be harmful and painful without medical attention, and some dogs can even traumatize themselves as they try to relieve the pain. So, if you suspect your dog has an ear infection, visit your vet or place some measures in advance to prevent water from damaging your dog’s ears.

How Do I Prevent Water From Getting in My Dog’s Ears?

There are many tips for preventing ear infections for dogs, but we will cover a few of the primary and most effective measures. For one, you need to ensure your dog’s ears are dried properly after any contact with water. This helps to ensure the excess water on the outer area of the ear doesn’t reach the ear canal. However, it doesn’t mean water won’t get inside the ear when swimming.

You can properly insert dog earplugs to fit perfectly on the ear canal to block any water passage. But do not use human earplugs, they must be specifically designed for dog esr canals. Additionally, identifying any underlying causes like allergies helps prevent infections from developing. So, once you identify any symptoms, seek treatment immediately before symptoms persist.

Key Takeaways

Ear infections for dogs can seem minor at first, but they can be scary. Like humans, many dogs love swimming, especially during summer, so it’s good to understand the risks and safeguard your dog’s health. It’s difficult to watch your dog endure pain and live uncomfortably, not to mention the bills that will accumulate for treatment. Besides, keeping your dog’s ears dry can be as simple as inserting dog earplugs.

Contact Sit Now Stay today to learn more about our dog training programs and how you can properly manage your dog’s behavioral or health habits.

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Are Lacrosse Balls Safe For Dogs?

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 14:26:00 GMT

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training , one of the most popular questions asked is which toys are the safest for our client’s pups. We’ve repeatedly seen how much dog owners care for their beloved animals and want them to stick around for the long haul. With so many things to juggle daily, it can be hard to constantly keep an eye out for what’s in your dog’s mouth, which is why you want to guarantee that your pup’s toys are non-toxic, safe, and won’t cause a choking hazard.

While tennis balls are commonly used as dog toys, lacrosse balls are less popular because most people don’t have these lying around their houses. So, let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about lacrosse balls and discover if they’re a safe toy for your dog.

What is a Lacrosse Ball?

To give you a better understanding of a lacrosse ball, let’s compare it to a more commonly known item, a tennis ball. The most obvious difference is that a tennis ball is green with a carpet-like finish, while a lacrosse ball is white with a rubber finish. You may assume that the lacrosse ball weighs less, but they are actually almost three times as heavy as a standard tennis ball. An average lacrosse ball weighs 140 to 147 grams, while an average tennis ball weighs only 56 to 59.4 grams.

What is a Lacrosse Ball made of?

Lacrosse balls are most commonly made with a solid, vulcanized rubber mixed with other additives, though different manufacturers use various types of elastic materials, such as silicone or polyurethane. However, if you purchase a standard lacrosse ball at a reputable shop, you can expect it to be made with vulcanized rubber.

Are Lacrosse Balls Toxic?

This, of course, is what our readers want to know. Is the vulcanized rubber used to produce lacrosse balls toxic for dogs? The short answer is no, it is not toxic for dogs. Vulcanized rubber is a material regularly used for producing a shoe’s outsole and as we all know, c hewing on shoes is a dog’s favorite pastime . While it’s not recommended for your dog to swallow small chunks of a lacrosse ball, they can have them in their mouths without cause for concern.

Is the Size of a Lacrosse Ball Safe for my Dog?

A standard lacrosse ball measures at least 7.75 inches but not more than 8 inches in circumference. For comparison purposes, a standard tennis ball measures between 8.09 inches to 8.48 inches, so as long your dog can safely fit a tennis ball in his or her mouth, then the same would apply to a lacrosse ball. The general rule is that the safest-sized balls for dogs to play with are the ones that are small enough to fit in their mouth but big enough to not be swallowed.

Should my Dog Chew on a Lacrosse Ball?

Dog chewing is normal behavior for your dog and is even healthy in many ways. During your puppy’s teething stage, chewing helps to relieve any teething pain. Furthermore, it can also help to strengthen and clean your dog’s teeth and gums. While it’s not unsafe for your dog to chew on a lacrosse ball, we don’t recommend you use it as the primary toy to clean your dog’s teeth and gums because the rubbery material may be too harsh and could cause damage.

If your dog gets ahold of one, don’t worry. Lacrosse balls are durable and can handle dog chewing. Still, we suggest you keep an eye out for any wear and tear on the ball. You’ll want to replace an old ball to prevent a potential choking accident.

Final Thoughts

Our conclusion is yes, lacrosse balls are indeed safe for your dogs. So, get out there and play a few rounds of fetch with your pup so you both will have a ball of a time! If your dog isn’t much of a fetcher and you’d like to look into dog training opportunities, contact Sit Now Stay for a free training consultation. Give us a call at (913) 285-8363 , or book your appointment online today!

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Are Herding Dogs Aggressive?

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:44:00 GMT

One of the most common questions people ask Sit Now Stay Dog Training is whether or not herding dogs are aggressive. After all, these breeds were initially bred to herd livestock , and sometimes that can lead to some aggression. But the truth is, herding dogs are no more aggressive than any other type of dog; it just depends on how they’re raised and trained. Here’s a closer look at herding dogs and their aggression levels.

Popular Herding Dog Breeds

When most people think of herding dogs, they think of German Shepherds and Border Collies. These are two of the most popular breeds of herding dogs, but there are many others. Some of the other popular breeds include:

Australian Cattle Dogs
Australian Shepherds
Bearded Collies
Bergamasco Sheepdogs
German Coolies
Welsh Corgis

So, what do all these breeds have in common? They were all bred for herding. But what does that mean? Define herding as “the control and movement of animals a short distance”. This can occur for many reasons including controlling livestock, so they don’t wander off or keeping predators away from a flock.

Herding dogs have been bred to do this job for centuries. And while most of them no longer work on farms or ranches, their instincts are still strong. That’s why it’s essential to understand the different types of herding breeds and their temperaments before bringing one into your home.

The Herding Instinct

All herding dogs have a strong herding instinct, which means they love to chase and nip at things that move. This includes other animals, children, and even people. However, this does not imply that herding dogs are automatically aggressive; it just means that they need an outlet for their herding instinct. If a herding dog does not have an outlet for its herding instinct, it may start to act out in other ways, such as barking excessively or chewing on furniture.

The best way to prevent this is to give your herding dog plenty of exercises . A long walk or run every day will go a long way towards helping them burn off excess energy and preventing them from becoming destructive. You should also enroll your herding dog in obedience classes so they can learn to follow commands and focus their attention on you instead of chasing after everything that moves

The Different Types of Herding Dogs

There are two types of herding dogs: those that bite and those that don’t. Your choice of herding dog should be based on your needs and preferences.

Biting herding dogs are often used on farms and ranches to herd livestock. They are trained to nip at the heels of animals to get them to move in a particular direction. These dogs are not typically recommended for homes with small children or other pets because they may mistake them for livestock and attempt to herd them. Non-biting herding dogs use barking and body language to herd livestock. They are considered less aggressive than biting herding dogs and are often recommended for homes with small children or other pets.

The Breed You Choose Should Match Your Lifestyle

Not all herding dogs are created equal. Each breed has its own unique set of traits to take into account when choosing the right dog for your family. For example, some breeds require more exercise than others, and some are more prone to specific health problems.

When choosing a herding dog breed, selecting one that matches your lifestyle is crucial. Do you have small children or other pets in your home? If so, consider a non-biting herding dog breed like the Australian Cattle Dog or the Bearded Collie. These breeds are considered to be less aggressive than biting herding dogs and are less likely to mistake small children or other pets for livestock.

On the other hand, if you live on a farm or ranch, you may want to consider a biting herding dog breed like the German Shepherd or the Border Collie. These breeds have been trained to nip at the heels of animals to get them to move in a certain direction, They also learn to protect them against predators. Thus, they may be more suited for families who live on farms or ranches where they can run and exercise freely.

The Bottom Line

There’s a lot of variation among the different types of herding dog breeds when it comes to aggressiveness. Some breeds, like the Border Collie, may have a higher propensity towards aggression. Others, like the Corgi, are less likely to be aggressive. Ultimately, it all comes down to how you raise and train the dog. If you give your herding dog plenty of exercises and socialize them early on, you’ll have a well-rounded pet.

Proper training and socialization can make any dog into a well-behaved pet. Contact Sit Now Stay Dog Training today if you want help training your herding dog or just want to ensure he behaves appropriately around other people and animals. We offer expert advice and services to help your furry friend become the best possible member of your family.

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Can Crate Training a Dog Stunt Their Growth?

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 15:44:00 GMT

When thinking about training your dog, you may wonder if you should crate train them or not. When people think of crates, they usually think of small metal cages used to transport dogs and keep them safe while traveling by plane or car. While crate training is a great tool in the right situations, it can also have some downsides that you may not be aware of.

People often call these “large” crates, and it’s important to know why using them at home can be bad for your dog’s growth and behavior.

How Do We Define Crate Training?

Crate training is the process of teaching your dog to feel comfortable in a crate or kennel . This can be useful for car rides, during periods of travel, or simply for providing your dog with a safe space in your home. The key to successful crate training is ensuring the experience is positive for your dog. This means taking things slowly and introducing the crate gradually. It’s also essential to never use the crate as a punishment.

The Facts about Crate Training

Whether or not crate training your dog will stunt their growth is a common question with many different opinions. The truth is, there isn’t a clear answer. Some experts say that it can help with housetraining and provide a sense of security for your dog, while others claim that it’s cruel and can cause physical and psychological damage.

Ultimately, the decision to crate train your dog is up to you. If you decide to go ahead with it, do your research and choose a high-quality crate that’s the right size for your pup.

Common Misconceptions About Crate Training

Crate training has become a popular way to train dogs, but there are still some misconceptions about the process. One common misconception is that this will stunt a dog’s growth. This is not true . Crate training can help your dog become more disciplined and better behaved, but it will not stunt its growth. It can be beneficial for both puppies and adult dogs.

If you are thinking about crate training your dog, be sure to do your research and find a reputable trainer to help you get started.

How Do I Transition from Using the Crate to Not Using It at All?

Though there are different schools of thought on whether or not crate training is beneficial for dogs, the consensus is that it can have a negative effect on their growth. When a dog is crated, they are restricted from moving around and exploring its environment. This can lead to stunted growth both physically and mentally. If you’re considering crate training your dog, be sure to do your research and consult with a professional to see if it’s the right decision for your pet.

There are Benefits to Crate Training

Crate training your dog may have some benefits, but it’s essential to ensure you’re not crating them for too long. If you are using a crate, make sure that it’s the right size for your dog and that they have plenty of toys and bedding to keep them comfortable. Most importantly, listen to your dog and crate them only when necessary.

Yes! We can train your dog! We develop customized dog training programs for Kansas City and the surrounding areas. Call us or click below for your free consultation!

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Are Huskies Good Farm Dogs? Make an Informed Decision for Your Husky

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 19:27:00 GMT

The playfulness and warm nature of the Siberian husky might have you thinking about getting the breed for your farm. Huskies are not only pretty with their wolf-life looks and blue eyes but also charming because they are so joyful . So, it’s not surprising to want one as a pet.

However, before getting any animal as a pet, you need to have some basic information about it. This is what responsible ownership demands. Therefore, you must ask, are huskies good farm dogs? We put together this simple guide to give you vital facts about Siberian Huskies and their suitability for farm life.

Can a Husky Live on a Farm?

The Siberian Husky is an energetic dog breed that requires plenty of exercises. Therefore, living on a farm should prove to be fun because the animal will have sufficient space to roam around. If you have a sizeable piece of real estate, a Husky will appreciate the freedom to run around the place.

Additionally, you can train a Husky to do a few things around the farm. Although they are not natural farm dogs, as with any other breed, Huskies can be trained to perform various tasks. With the help of qualified trainers, your furry friend can learn to do more than a few activities so that he or she has different ways to expend all that energy. Since Huskies are inherently good-natured, they are easy to work with. An agreeable dog makes training uncomplicated.

How Will a Husky Relate to Other Animals?

One big problem you can expect with keeping a Husky on a farm is the danger posed to other animals. Although the breed can be friendly, it is highly predatory. Chickens are especially not safe around a Siberian Husky. If you keep hen and other birds on your farm, you have to be very careful about having a Husky around.

Huskies also chase after goats, sheep, and other small animals like cats. Even when the dog is well-fed, it might still run after the animals on the farm solely for fun. So, your livestock might not have a lot of peace unless the place is big enough to separate the animals.

You must watch out for the dog and stop it from chasing after the rest of the animals. Behavioral training goes a long way in helping get a handle on your pet.

Huskies are not all bad, though. As mentioned, they are good-natured. A Siberian Husky carries on well with other animals when feeling sociable. It also interacts cheerfully with other dogs.

Can a Husky Provide Protection?

When answering the question, ‘are huskies good farm dogs?’ we must discuss a Husky’s protective instinct. It is almost non-existent. Siberian Huskies are friendly to strangers , making them lousy guard dogs. Although a Husky looks menacing, don’t expect it to do much else. If you want a guard dog on your farm, consider a German Shepherd.

Should I Get a Husky as a Farm Dog?

The above insights tell you the essentials of keeping Siberian Huskies on a farm. If after reading this guide, you think you can handle a Husky on your farm, then take the chance. Of course, get the right training for your dog to maximize its potential.

Sit Now Stay offers comprehensive dog training services in Kansas. Regardless of the dog breed, we can turn your pup into a pet you want to spend time with. We pride ourselves on providing some of the best programs for the board and training in Kansas City . Our experienced trainers can also advise you on how to care for a Siberian Husky to give it a good-quality life.

We develop custom training programs to suit individual animals and pet owner requirements. Contact us at (913) 372-3101 or use our online portal to book a free consultation.

The post Are Huskies Good Farm Dogs? Make an Informed Decision for Your Husky appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Creating a Balance When Juggling a Dog and a Full-Time Schedule

Thu, 26 May 2022 19:38:00 GMT

Balancing a Dog and a Full-Time Profession

As a working professional, it can often feel like you have to choose between having a pet and maintaining a busy lifestyle. Juggling work, socializing, and finding time for errands may be difficult, let alone taking your pet dog for a walk. But what if there were ways to make both of those things happen? This post will explore tips for managing a full-time job and still having time for your beloved canine companion. Stay tuned!

Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog

If you’re a busy professional with a full-time job, you might be wondering how you can juggle owning a dog. Rest assured, it is possible! But first, before acquiring a dog, you need to do your research. Different breeds of dogs have different needs in terms of exercise, feeding, and so on. Be sure to choose a breed that will fit nicely into your lifestyle.

Second, you need to get organized. Dogs need routine, so you’ll need to stick to a regular feeding and walking schedule, even on busy days. Make sure you also have a good system for keeping track of things like vet appointments, grooming appointments, etc. This will help you avoid last-minute scrambling and stressed-out dogs!

Ideas for Keeping Your Dog Entertained When You’re Not Home

Here are some tips for keeping your dog happy and healthy, even when you’re short on time:

1. Make Use of Doggy Daycare

If you’re going to be working long hours, doggy daycare can be a lifesaver. Your pup will get to socialize and burn off energy while you’re at work, and you won’t have to worry about coming home to an antsy dog. 33% of respondents in a study by the National Sleep Foundation said their pets disturb their sleep at least a few nights a week. Finding a good daycare that you can entrust your dog with while at work will ensure that it’s being taken care of and exercised while away.

2. Set Aside Time for Walks and Playtime

Even if you can’t commit to long walks every day, try to set aside some time each day for a quick walk around the block or a game of fetch in the backyard. You can schedule a stroll or play for 30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes in the evening.

A tired dog is a happy dog, and you’ll enjoy some quality bonding time. In fact, 36% of dog owners say their dog walks are one of their favorite things to do together. Walks and playtime will help them get some much-needed exercise and attention. Your dog will appreciate the quality time — and it’s a great way to relieve stress for both of you!

3. Take Advantage of Technology

Many products are on the market now to help you keep an eye on your dog while you’re away. Be sure to create a safe and comfortable space for your dog at home, where they can relax and stay out of trouble. This may include dog-proofing your home and providing plenty of toys and chew bones. A busy dog is a good dog; they’re less likely to get into trouble if they have something to keep them occupied.

4. Find a Playmate for Your Dog

If you have a friend or family member with a dog, see if they can come over for regular playdates. Alternatively, if you have a yard, consider getting another dog as a companion for your furry friend. This can provide companionship and entertainment for both of you!

5. Consider Dog Training

A well-trained dog can be left home alone for extended periods without getting into trouble or destroying things. If you’re struggling with behavioral issues, consider investing in some dog training classes. It’s a long-term investment that will pay off. In an American Veterinary Medical Association survey, 36% of dog owners said they spent more on their pet dog training than last year.

Key Takeaway

With a bit of planning and effort, you can make sure your pet dog is happy and healthy. Owning a well-trained dog can make life much easier, especially if you have a busy schedule. That’s why Sit Now Stay Dog Training offers services to help train your furry friend and make sure they are obedient and happy.

We understand that every dog is different, so we work with each client to create an individualized training program that will be most successful for both the pet and the owner. If you’re interested in the best board and train programs in Kansas City or want to learn more about how we can help you and your pup live a fuller life together, please don’t hesitate to r each out to us today !

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Can any dog breed be trained as a service dog?

Mon, 02 May 2022 19:48:00 GMT

A service dog is a specially trained dog that can perform specific tasks for people with disabilities. They’re not just for the blind—dogs can also help those with hearing impairments, epilepsy, autism, and other emotional or mental disorders (like post-traumatic stress disorder), diabetes, etc. If you have a disability that makes it difficult to live your life independently, you may want to consider applying for a service dog.

Service dogs are different from emotional support animals (ESAs). They are specifically trained to assist their owners while ESAs are not—an ESA is simply an animal that provides comfort through companionship. They’re both lovely additions to the family, but you can take only one of them into public places like restaurants and hotels!

Can Any Dog Breed Be Trained as a Service Dog?

Not every dog breed is cut out for service dog training . This doesn’t mean that there aren’t exceptions, and it doesn’t mean that mixed breeds or unregistered purebreds can’t be trained either, but as a general rule of thumb, there are specific skills that some dogs seem to come by naturally.

Best Breeds for Service Dog Training

The best breeds for service dog training have been traditionally the same ones used by hunters to retrieve games. Because hunting dogs are bred for traits that make them good at finding things, retrieving them, and bringing them back to you (think about Labrador retrievers), it’s no surprise that these same breeds tend to do well as service animals. Here are some of the top breeds used:

Labradors

Considering all this, it makes sense that Labradors are also one of the more popular choices for guide dogs. They are seen as having an easygoing personality and gentle giants, making them ideal as service dogs for people with physical disabilities or who suffer from anxiety.

Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are also a popular choice for service dog breeds because of their protective nature, making them great for home protection and those who need constant help due to a disability or disease. Golden Retrievers have sharp hearing and can quickly detect anything out of the ordinary.

German Shepherds

The best overall service dog breeds is the German Shepherd because they have been bred with a high intelligence level and incredible endurance. They also tend to be more independent thinkers than other breeds, so they don’t require as much oversight or direction from their handlers.

Poodles

Poodles are also intelligent dogs with a lot of stress tolerance—they were initially bred to hunt ducks underwater without worrying about being bitten by the duck they were chasing.

Boxers

These dogs tend to be very energetic and outgoing—two crucial qualities for service animals—but they also tend to be patient and affectionate with their handlers. They’re also generally known for being intelligent and easygoing, making them excellent at adapting well to new situations.

Worst Breeds for Service Dog Training

Some breeds aren’t very suitable as service animals because they’re too small or they aren’t able to perform all the necessary tasks, and they include;

Afghan Hound

Some of the worst dog breeds for service dog training are hounds, such as Afghan Hounds, who are bred to be independent and stubborn—they don’t respond well to commands. Afghans tend to run toward people instead of away from them; this could cause them to collide with someone or knock someone down.

Basenji

Basenjis are also high-strung and prone to separation anxiety, making them unsuitable for any service work. They might have been great at hunting small game or helping out with hunting small game, but if you need help getting around because of some disability, these dogs aren’t the best choice.

Bulldogs

Bulldogs are short-snouted and have difficulty breathing if they’re wearing a heavy service dog vest or working in a hot environment.

Conclusion

The training process for service dogs is rigorous, and certain breeds just aren’t cut out for the job. Choosing the right breed for a service dog is a serious business, since these animals will be trained to help disabled people perform tasks that many of us take for granted.

Specifically, the dog must remain calm when faced with loud noises, such as those from fireworks or thunderstorms. The animal needs to be able to endure physical challenges that could include carrying objects like a purse or briefcase. Do you want to learn more about service dogs? Contact one of our experienced dog trainers today! Or learn more about Sit Now Stay Dog Training .

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Where Can I Adopt a Dog In Kansas City?

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 19:54:00 GMT

There are a number of great places to adopt a dog in Kansas City. The KC Pet Project is one of the largest animal shelters in the area, and they have a wide variety of dogs up for adoption. If you’re looking for a specific breed or type of dog, there are also plenty of other options available.

The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City is another great place to find your new furry friend, and they often have puppies and kittens up for adoption as well. There are also numerous private rescue organizations throughout the city that can help you find the perfect pet for your home.

Another option is the Great Plains SPCA , which also has a wide selection of dogs available for adoption. They also have locations in both Kansas City and St. Joseph, so if you’re not near the city proper, they might be a better choice for you.

No matter where you decide to adopt your dog, be sure to do your research first and ask lots of questions. It’s important to find an animal that will be a good fit for your lifestyle and personality. Adopting a dog is a big commitment, but it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

What To Think About Before Adopting A Dog?

There are many reasons to adopt a dog, and just as many reasons not to. It is important to consider all of the factors involved in bringing a new dog into your home before making the decision.

Dogs need exercise, playtime, and training. If you don’t have enough time for a pet, you may want to reconsider adopting one. Dogs need basic obedience training , and puppies require even more work in the early months. If you’re not willing or able to put in the time necessary for proper training, you may want to reconsider adopting a dog.

Bringing a new pet into your home means making some changes. You’ll need a safe place for the dog to sleep, plenty of food and water bowls, and toys. Not all pets get along, so it’s important to be prepared for potential conflicts. If you already have a pet, make sure they’re comfortable with dogs and that the two can coexist peacefully.

How To Adopt a dog?

To adopt a dog from a shelter, you will need to fill out an application and pay an adoption fee. The adoption fee helps to cover the cost of care for the animal while they were at the shelter. You will also need to provide proof of vaccinations and spay/neuter for your new pet. Some shelters may require that you have your new pet microchipped as well. Once you have completed the adoption process, you will be able to take your new furry friend home!

How Can Dog Trainers Help?

Sit Now Stay can help with the “heavy lifting” involved in adopting a new dog. We have multiple classes and programs aimed at young puppies all the way to full grown breeds. If you have any questions before, after, or during adopting a new dog please reach out today!

The post Where Can I Adopt a Dog In Kansas City? appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

What Are the Hardest Dog Breeds To Potty Train?

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 20:01:00 GMT

First, if you are reading this article, it is likely that you have a dog or are thinking about getting one. After all, having a pet can provide companionship and unconditional love to the owner. It is not surprising that people wish to take care of their pets in their own ways. However, one important thing that some owners often overlook when caring for their dogs is housebreaking them .

Housebreaking ensures that your dog does not make a mess inside your home by urinating or defecating anywhere in your house they like. Housebreaking is important to ensure that you are not stepping on dog feces or fragile pieces of your home being broken by the strong stench.

What are the hardest dog breeds to potty train? Ask that question to ten different pet owners and you’ll get at least five different answers, if not more. The truth is, there is no such thing as one of the “hardest” dog breeds to potty train.

What Do You Need To Know To Potty Train A Puppy?

Your success in house training a new puppy will depend on a variety of factors: how consistent your methods are, how much time and effort you put into your training efforts, if you have any previous experience with puppies or other dogs, and so forth.

The following tips will help you get started on the right track with your puppy potty training:

Choose a designated spot for your pup to relieve himself outdoors and always take him there immediately after he wakes up, after playing or eating and every time he goes outside.
Designate an area inside your home where his potty pad will be placed and only allow him access to this area when you are unable to watch over him or take him outside.
Keep track of when your puppy goes to the bathroom by using a timer or an app on your smartphone so you know when to take him outside next time.
Give him lots of praise and treats every time he goes in the right spot while indoors or outdoors, so that he knows what is expected from him at all times!

There are some general rules of thumb about which dog breeds typically have the most difficulty being house trained, but each case must be assessed individually before assuming a particular type can’t be trained.

What Are Some Other Factors To Consider For Potty Training?

Temperament is also an important factor when considering what breeds are harder to potty train. Some dogs may become stressed out by changes in their home environment , which can increase their anxiety and make them less willing to cooperate with training. However, the majority of difficult dogs tend to be highly food motivated.

Potty training difficulties can be reduced if you are well prepared before you bring your dog home. Knowing what types of food and chew toys to use for positive reinforcement will go a long way in getting your new pup housebroken and ready for life at your home. By choosing the right potty training supplies, you’ll make it easier to train your dog to use the bathroom outside rather than on the carpet.

What Breeds Truly Are More Stubborn/Problematic?

Huskies

Huskies are known for having a very strong personality which affects them in all areas of life, including potty training. This breed is determined and knows what he wants so expecting him to respond well without making too much effort from your part isn’t going to work out planned. This breed is also known for being very vocal so expect to hear a lot of whining and barking during training sessions.

Great Danes

They drool a lot so expect your floors to have puddles everywhere when you bring home a Great Dane puppy. They also have a stubborn streak in them so they are very difficult to train using positive reinforcement.

Pit Bulls

It is hard for any dog owner to house train their canine pet, but Pit Bulls are especially known for being very tough on this front. This breed loves tearing up furniture pieces and digging holes in your lawn when outside, which makes potty training them harder. You will have more success if you use a crate in this case.

Pugs

Another small breed, pugs are known for being a little more difficult to train. They can also be hard-headed and stubborn, which makes it even harder to potty train them. It’s best to start early with your pug training, as these dogs can often hold their bladders for about 1 hour at a time before they need to go outside.

Professional Dog Training Classes

At Sit Now Stay we provide a wide range of classes for you and your dog. Our goal is to help you learn how to train your dog from beginning to end, and then take it even further with our advanced training programs. Call today!

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How To Train Your Dog To Ignore Other Dogs

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 20:07:00 GMT

Dogs are naturally social animals, so you probably have no problem taking yours to the dog park. But what do you do if they start a fight with another dog? Is it okay to let your dog play with others? How can you be sure they will get along? The truth is that while most dogs are friendly, some are not. And even if your dog seems trustworthy around other dogs, there may come a time when he is faced with an unfriendly pooch who wants to butt heads.

What To Consider Before Training Your Dog?

First of all, let’s consider safety. If your pet gets so excited by any sight or sound of another dog (or person) that he loses control and ends up biting someone or creating some form of havoc on the beach or in an off-leash park , then he can be a genuine danger to society at large.

Secondly, dogs who have trouble staying calm in the presence of other canines often have trouble calming themselves after they’ve been stimulated. This means that every walk becomes a battle of wills between dog and owner, with an ever-present potential for disaster around other dogs. It also means that your pooch is more likely to become anxious, fearful, or aggressive, which can lead to even more dangerous behavior problems down the road.

Finally, there’s the fact that dogs love going for walks so much because it provides them with an opportunity to experience a variety of scents and sounds from the world around them. If he gets so worked up over every new aroma or sound combination he encounters, he’ll lose some of his passion for investigating the world with you.

What Steps Can You Take For Better Dog Behavior?

You are probably reading this because you have a problem with your dog being distracted by, barking at, or even attacking other dogs. This behavior can be very frustrating and dangerous. Not to mention, many people actually encourage their dog’s interest in other dogs because they enjoy having their dog greet all of the neighborhood pooches on walks. If this sounds like something you would like to do here are some tips for teaching your pup good manners when meeting new friends.

You will need to teach him a cue that tells him when it is okay to approach another dog and one that indicates he must stay away from them. I use two words, “touch” and “no touch.” These are easy for your pet to understand and work well with most dogs. If you can’t come up with something simple like this yourself, there are several great books available about canine communication that can help.

Once you have your cues picked out, practice them every time you greet another dog with your pet. Give him the chance to sniff around but not to actually approach the other dog if he does not listen when given his cue (i.e., that might mean turning his head away). If he ignores you then just walk in the opposite direction, acting like you are trying to get away from each other.

Do You Need A Professional Dog Trainer For Behavior Issues?

You have established great leadership over your dog and taken the time to teach him the basic obedience he needs to be successful in just about all situations. One of his weaknesses however, is that he seems obsessed with every other dog that comes into view and this has led to a few embarrassing moments on walks where he’s constantly distracted and drawn away from you and towards another canine companion.

Not everything can be done on your own and we are here to help! Sit Now Stay can assist in all behavior modification and obedience training. Call today!

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Easy Hand Signals You Can Use to Train Your Dog

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 20:11:00 GMT

There are a variety of hand signals people can use to train their dog at home. These signals are easy to learn and can be used to cue your dog to do a variety of things, such as sit, stay, come, and down.

Not all dogs respond well to these hand signals right away; some may take months of practice before they understand what each gesture means. If you seem to be struggling with your dog’s ability to understand these signals, there are a variety of training books and videos available online that can help.

What Are the Most Common Hand Signals For Dog Training?

One basic hand signal is the “ stop ” signal. This signal is simply raising your hand in the air, palm out, to indicate to your dog that he or she should stop what they are doing.

Another common hand signal is the “ stay ” signal. This signal is performed by placing your palm out and slowly lowering it towards the floor. This gesture tells your dog to stay in place until you give them further instruction.

The “ come ” signal is one of the most important signals to know. This signal is simply waving your hand in an upward motion, as if you were signaling a waiter to come over at a restaurant. Keep in mind that many dogs will not pay attention to this signal unless they are trained properly over time.

The “ down ” signal is used to tell your dog to lay down on his or her stomach. To perform this signal, place your palm facing downwards and then move it straight back towards yourself with some force.

What To Do When Training With Hand Signals?

Hand signals are signals used along with vocal commands to help dogs understand better. There are many different types of hand signals people use for dogs; some include sit, paw, come, down and stay. It’s important that dog owners know the positives outcome of each hand signal so their dogs can fully understand them.

When training a dog to do hand signals, choose hand signals that are easy for you and your dog to remember. A good way to make sure your dog remembers the signal is to teach her to touch her nose or paw at your hand as you give the cue. It’s also helpful if everyone in the family uses the same signals; otherwise, it will be confusing for your pooch and decrease their ability to respond quickly.

Always use positive reinforcement in the form of treats or praise. Avoid using negative reinforcement, such as yelling or slapping the dog’s nose. If the dog doesn’t understand what is being asked of her, stop giving the cue until they know it better. Remember to keep training sessions short and enjoyable for both you and your pet. Once the dog has learned all the signals, start using them with commands like “sit” and “stay.”

When To Call A Professional Dog Trainer

Although many people believe they can train their own pets, this is not always the case. It’s not because these individuals are bad pet owners; in fact, most of them love their pets very much and do all they can to provide for them. However, sometimes it helps to have an objective party outside the family unit involved in training your canine companion. Things like untrained behavior (barking, chewing) or simply problems you’re having with getting your dog to listen may be quickly resolved with the help of a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist .

Situations calling for a professional dog trainer might include:

You’re having trouble housebreaking your dog.
Your dog barks excessively or constantly at other animals or people.
He or she has a problem with jumping on people or furniture.
You can’t get your dog to stop chewing on everything in sight.
The animal is fearfully aggressive towards other animals or people, even family members.
He or she suffers from separation anxiety and becomes destructive when left alone.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues (or others), Sit Now Stay Dog Training can help. Our dog trainers can not only offer solutions to these problems, but they can also provide training that will help create a better relationship between you and your pet.

The post Easy Hand Signals You Can Use to Train Your Dog appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Can My Dog Eat It? Popular Food Questions Answered

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 20:14:00 GMT

Dogs can eat all sorts of things. In fact, they’re not picky at all! They’ll eat just about anything that you give them, from a slice of pizza to a fresh-from-the-oven chocolate chip cookie to a tasty piece of chicken. Dogs can be trained to instinctively avoid dangerous foods and learn which ones are OK to eat, but there are some foods that they simply should not eat.

What foods can dogs eat?

Well, it depends on what you mean by “can.” For most people, this means, “Is it poisonous?” or even, “Is it poisonous for my dog in particular?” These are two very different questions that require two very different answers.

Dogs have specific dietary requirements not dissimilar to our own dietary requirements. They are omnivores, so they can eat meat and vegetables. However, the meat has to be limited to small amounts of lean meats such as beef or poultry, with all fat trimmed off before feeding it to your dog. Dogs cannot eat fatty foods because it will cause them to have pancreatitis which is very painful for dogs. Vegetables need to be limited too, but there are some that are safe for dogs to eat in limited quantities. Broccoli is one example, along with carrots and cucumbers . Be careful though not to feed your dog anything spicy or salty because these foods may upset their stomachs.

The same goes for fruits – your dog can eat fruits, but be careful with what kind of fruits you feed your dog. There are some that may be bad for their digestive system and cause a lot of gastric distress. A few examples of safe fruits to feed your dog include apples, bananas and blueberries .

Properly cooked bones from beef or poultry can also be fed to dogs as some sort of treat. Just make sure they’re not sharp enough to hurt your dog’s mouth as it chews on them, and never cook the bones yourself at home because cooking will make the bones brittle and dangerous for your pet to chew on.

What foods to avoid feeding dogs?

Chocolate and cocoa ( found in baked goods, candy, ice cream, etc. ) is one of the most well known toxic foods for dogs . This compound can cause vomiting and diarrhea as well as severe agitation and increased heart rate. It’s important to note that dark chocolate has a higher concentration of this chemical than milk chocolate. If you suspect your dog has ingested any amount of chocolate, it’s best to call your veterinarian or emergency veterinary services immediately. Even small amounts can be dangerous for pets!

Another common food to avoid giving your pet is garlic and onions (generally found in dinner dishes such as meatloaf or fried rice). While these foods may not necessarily hurt yourself eating them, they can be dangerous for your dog and will make them severely sick, causing anemia and a decrease in blood clotting ability.

Other foods to avoid: avocados ( contain persin, which is toxic to dogs ), grapes and raisins ( can cause kidney failure ), macadamia nuts ( cause vomiting and diarrhea in some dogs ), yeast dough ( causes expansion of stomach or intestines when ingested by a dog ).

If My Dog Ate a Food on the Bad List When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet?

If you are concerned that your dog may have eaten something bad, what you should do depends on the type of product your dog ate, how much they ate, and whether or not they seem sick.

Your first step is to monitor your dog’s symptoms and see if they improve or get worse as time goes on. If your dog ate something less than an hour ago and is completely asymptomatic but you can’t be sure, there isn’t a great deal of harm in waiting to watch the situation develop.

If your dog ate a product that was toxic for dogs more than two hours ago and showed no symptoms whatsoever, you should take them for a check up to make sure everything is okay. It would be unusual for a poisoning to take place over such a long period of time but it might happen.

The following are some common signs that most pets will show after ingesting something toxic or harmful:

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Weakness

Persistent coughing

Seizures

Rapid or shallow breathing

If your dog has any of these symptoms, please bring them in to a Veterinarian right away!

Sit Now Stay is available for training assistance and boarding ! Plus we can answer most all your common questions when it comes to behavior and dietary needs.

The post Can My Dog Eat It? Popular Food Questions Answered appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

If you are concerned that your dog may have eaten something bad, what you should do depends on the type of product your dog ate, how much they ate, and whether or not they seem sick.

Your first step is to monitor your dog’s symptoms and see if they improve or get worse as time goes on. If your dog ate something less than an hour ago and is completely asymptomatic but you can’t be sure, there isn’t a great deal of harm in waiting to watch the situation develop.

If your dog ate a product that was toxic for dogs more than two hours ago and showed no symptoms whatsoever, you should take them for a check up to make sure everything is okay. It would be unusual for a poisoning to take place over such a long period of time but it might happen.

The following are some common signs that most pets will show after ingesting something toxic or harmful:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Weakness
Persistent coughing
Seizures
Rapid or shallow breathing

If your dog has any of these symptoms, please bring them in to a Veterinarian right away!

Sit Now Stay is available for training assistance and boarding ! Plus we can answer most all your common questions when it comes to behavior and dietary needs.

The post Can My Dog Eat It? Popular Food Questions Answered appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Tips For Calming Your Dog’s Food Aggression

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 20:22:00 GMT

What Is Food Aggression?

Food aggression relates to dogs that tend to guard their food from other animals or humans by either growling or snapping at them when they try to take the food away or get too close during feeding time. Some dogs may exhibit this behavior with toys as well, though it is typically associated with meals. A dog exhibiting food aggression usually has their ears pinned back, furrowed brows, and may be snarling or snapping with their jaws.

They aren’t typically known to bite or cause serious damage, but it’s still a potentially dangerous situation for both the dog you are trying to feed as well as any children in the family. If your dog is showing signs of food aggression, you need to act quickly . Be careful when trying to calm your dog because you do not want this behavior to escalate. Here are some tips on how to calm a dog’s aggression with food.

Provide several small meals throughout the day

When your dog is in a calm state, start feeding him smaller meals more frequently. This will help to keep him from getting too hungry during the day while also keeping him at a happier level of hunger rather than having one huge meal that could make him sick if he eats it all at once.

Separate the dogs when feeding time occurs

You may want to separate your dog from any other pets that you have when it is mealtime. This will help ensure that he or she does not get more worked up than necessary and keeps food aggression to a minimum. If one of your other pets has already displayed signs of food aggression, it might be best to keep him in an area where the two animals cannot see each other so that any signs of aggression do not escalate.

Have a special place for your pet’s food bowl

You may want to consider purchasing a dog food dish with a rubber bottom or a raised dish so that it will be harder for other animals or family members to get into your pets bowl while he is eating. Another option would be putting his food in an elevated feeder or one that does not allow the food to come out easily by tipping over. When you put the dish in its spot, say “No” again while scratching your pet on the side of his ear.

Keep all feeding times consistent

If your dog’s mealtimes are always at 6:00pm every day, then stick with that for feeding time regardless of what else might be going on in your life. He needs to understand that this is when he is getting fed and nothing else matters during this time. If he gets too excited and become food aggressive, give him a few minutes to calm down before handing him the bowl; otherwise, take him back to his crate or separate area until he is calm enough that you can put the bowl down without any problems.

Do not leave your dog alone with food

It is never safe to leave your pet alone with any type of food since there are too many accidents that could happen. Make sure you are always around to supervise, even if it means taking turns eating at certain times during the day so each pet gets their own supervised time frame. Otherwise, your other animals may eat all of your dogs food or even try to steal his or her treats, leading to more aggressive behavior from them in return. This makes for a much bigger problem than just trying to feed one pet at a time.

Keep food out of reach

If you are feeding your pet in an elevated feeder, then make sure it is at least 5 feet off the floor to keep other animals away. Keep snacks or treats on top of the refrigerator or other hard-to-reach places that other pets cannot get into easily. It may take some time for your dog to learn these boundaries , but he will eventually understand what is and is not okay when it comes to where his food can be while you are around.

Should you hire a professional trainer to help with aggression?

You don’t have to do it alone! Please don’t let your dog’s behavior get out of hand. Sit Now Stay has the professional trainers that can help with some of your dogs less than perfect behavior. If you are experiencing any strange behavior with your pet it’s never to late to reach out. Contact us today for a free consultation!

The post Tips For Calming Your Dog’s Food Aggression appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

You don’t have to do it alone! Please don’t let your dog’s behavior get out of hand. Sit Now Stay has the professional trainers that can help with some of your dogs less than perfect behavior. If you are experiencing any strange behavior with your pet it’s never to late to reach out. Contact us today for a free consultation!

The post Tips For Calming Your Dog’s Food Aggression appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

7 Best Training Collars For Stubborn Pups

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 12:57:00 GMT

Training a stubborn pup will be more of a challenge than you think. When a pup does not want to give in, they will try their best not to. If they want to play around instead of participating in training , then you might be for a long day.

To combat this issue and ensure that your pup stays well-behaved, you can use a training collar.

What is a Training Collar?

A training collar is a collar to be worn by dogs that prevent bad behavior. On the collar, there is a deterrent, which will fasten or tug if the pup behaves badly. The feature works to rid pups of certain habits.

The 7 Best Training Collars For Stubborn Pups

Finding the best training collar for your pup will stop them from being stubborn and behaving inappropriately . Here are 7 of the best options:

1 – Garmin Delta XC Bundle

The Garmin Delta XC Bundle is considered one of the best overall training collars for stubborn pups. It features an electronic configuration, which means you can control your dog using a control. It features intuitive features that enable you to train multiple dogs at a time as well as initiate stimulation so that the dog can respond and act accordingly.

2 – PetSpy P620

PetSpy’s P620 training collar is a great shock collar to encourage stubborn pups to act in the right way. If the pup is being naughty and refusing to walk, the training collar will vibrate, beep, or shock the dog from up to 650 yards away.

3 – Petrainer PET998DRU1

The Petrainer PET998DRU1 is a great training collar for those who want to change the stimulation that the pup feels. If the pup is pretty well-behaved and only needs a shock from time to time, you can limit the vibration to not be intense. Whereas if you have a naughty dog that requires a lot of nudging to stop being stubborn, you can max out the shock, beep, or vibration so that they behave better.

4 – SportDOG Brand 425x Remote Trainers

SportDOG’s 425x Remote Trainer collar is ideal for those dogs who like to try and chew through their collar. They might be so stubborn that they refuse to wear it. However, it is very durable and fit for any size dog. It is comfortable and effective for those dogs who need a nudge to behave better while training.

5 – Educator E-Collar

For small dogs that require small to medium vibrations to gently help them become less stubborn, the Educator E-Collar is a great option. These come with a half-mile radius, which is ideal for a small dog that likes to wander. The collar features an LDC screen that can easily change the vibration.

6 – IPETS PET619S

IPET’s PET619S training collar is the star of the show if you are looking for something 100% waterproof. Nothing is more annoying than being out in the rain and the collar stops working. You will be aggravated by the weather as well as trying to calm your stubborn pup. You won’t have to worry with the IPET collar as it can withstand any weather and is intuitive to allow multiple sounds and vibrations depending on the stubbornness of your pup.

7 – Pet Solve Dog Training Collar

The Pet Solve Dog Training Collar is great for large dogs who need training on the go. The collar features no standby button so it is always working and ready to go when you need help. It ranges from three to four miles, which is ideal if your large pup likes to go off and wander in the woods. The collar and its remote are waterproof so you can rely on it to help you train a stubborn pup no matter the weather. You can fully recharge the Pet Solve Dog Training Collar in less than two hours and be good to go again.

Final thoughts

No matter if you have a small or a big pup, a training collar is ideal if you want to stop your pup from being so stubborn. They can shock, beep or vibrate depending on their settings. There are many different sizes, most of which are waterproof, which makes them suitable for any type or size of the pup. They are extremely useful in the training years and to help your pup attain good behavior.

Contact Sit Now Stay Dog Training for any questions you about your dog’s behavior!

The post 7 Best Training Collars For Stubborn Pups appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

The Definitive Guide to What It really Costs to Care for a Dog

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 13:22:00 GMT

Dogs make our lives more fulfilling. With their unconditional love and the joy they bring, it’s a giving relationship. But, do you know what it really costs to care for a dog ? We can’t understate the importance of knowing more. This guide gives you insight on what it takes to care for your furry friend, and the investment to expect.

The Basic Dog Ownership Costs

These costs vary by location and type of dog. Yet, they give you an idea of dog ownership costs for the bare necessities.

Food and Treats — up to $700 a year
Routine Vet Visits — up to $2000 a year for a healthy dog
Bedding, Collars, and Leashes — up to $250 a year
Toys — the sky’s the limit, but on-average up to $50 a year
Training Classes — up to $300 a year
Grooming — up to $500 a year
Boarding or Pet Sitters — up to $300 a year
Preventative Care — up to $600 a year

Initial Costs for a New Dog

Your initial investment depends on what kind of dog you get and where you get it. For a purebred, the costs are substantially more than a shelter or rescue dog. There are many dogs that need a home so if you don’t care about the dog’s breeding, consider a rescue group or shelter.

One of the first things to do with any new dog is to find a veterinarian. You’ll need to get your dog’s health checked out and make sure that it has its shots. These include core vaccinations and preventative care such as flea control and heartworm medication.

A healthy and happy home environment is another area of expense. The basics include a comfortable bed, a collar, leashes, grooming items, and toys. The cost of these things are up to your discretion. But expect to spend up to $250 a year depending on how often you need to replace things and the styles you prefer.

Continued Care

The continued care of your canine friend includes preventative care maintenance. These are things like flea control, heartworm meds, supplements, and vet visits.

Grooming costs range from nothing, if you do it yourself, to up to $500 a year for a professional. Sure, you may bathe your dog yourself. But are you adept in cutting your dog’s toenails or making sure their anal glands and ears are clean?

Food and treats are another area that varies considerably. It makes sense that a Chihuahua will eat less than a Great Dane. But make sure you are feeding your dog food that is of a high quality. Poor choices in food can lead to obesity , allergies, and many other issues that end up costing more in the end. Your canine’s fitness is one of the defining factors in its health.

Training is important for your dog. Not only does this teach them the basics, but it strengthens the bond between you and your dog. It builds confidence in your dog and provides the mental stimulation they need.

If you’re ready to get started with training for your dog and live in the Kansas City area, we hope you call Sit Now Stay . We have a staff of certified dog trainers who offer experience in many types of training. We specialize in everything from basic manners and obedience to behavior modification to dog performance and special task training.

Extra Costs

There are some things that are not always a need when owning a dog. Yet, sometimes they are an expense. For example, dog boarding or pet sitting. If you travel at all, this is an expense to take into account. You’ll need someone to care for your canine companion. Even if you have a family member willing to help, it’s nice to pay them for their time.

Fill out our contact form to see if we fit your needs or call us today .

The post The Definitive Guide to What It really Costs to Care for a Dog appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Inhale, Exhale, Sit, Stay: Dog Training Can Ease Your Pup’s Anxiety.

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 13:47:00 GMT

As pet parents, we want our best furry friends to feel safe and secure. When they’re anxious, we’re anxious, and that can make everyday tasks like leaving for work, running errands, and — dog forbid — taking a vacation feel daunting and stressful. Separation anxiety in dogs is a common, but particularly concerning problem for many owners.

From unwanted chewing to all night barking, separation anxiety leads to bad behavior and a stressed out household. We promise, your dog feels just as bad about that ruined sofa as you do. Anxiety can weigh heavily on a dog’s mood as well as their immune system.

Take a deep breath. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Dog training for separation anxiety is a highly beneficial tool when it comes to easing your pet’s stress, correcting bad behaviors, and managing separation anxiety in dogs. A pup approved yoga class may be out of reach, but our canine obedience classes in Kansas City are always open for new students.

Training Empowers Pet Parents

Obedience training for dogs with separation anxiety gives owners an arsenal of tools at their disposal. Managing separation anxiety in dogs is far easier with a myriad of tried and true techniques and strategies. Pet parents have the benefit of knowledgeable canine experts to guide them along the way. Together, we can develop a de-stress plan for your dog that includes:

Appropriate crate training to ease your dog’s anxiety and provide a safe space where he or she feels comfortable.

Redirection of negative behaviors.

Provide pre-departure cues so your dog knows what to expect. Think of these commands as your farewell hug to reassure a nervous pet.

Offer advice on managing breed specific habits like chewing, urinating, barking, and whining. Often times, simple solutions like consistent behavioral training can make a world of difference in relieving canine anxiety.

Obedience training for dogs with separation anxiety gives owners an arsenal of tools at their disposal. Managing separation anxiety in dogs is far easier with a myriad of tried and true techniques and strategies. Pet parents have the benefit of knowledgeable canine experts to guide them along the way. Together, we can develop a de-stress plan for your dog that includes:

Appropriate crate training to ease your dog’s anxiety and provide a safe space where he or she feels comfortable.
Redirection of negative behaviors.
Provide pre-departure cues so your dog knows what to expect. Think of these commands as your farewell hug to reassure a nervous pet.
Offer advice on managing breed specific habits like chewing, urinating, barking, and whining. Often times, simple solutions like consistent behavioral training can make a world of difference in relieving canine anxiety.

Training Reassures Anxious Pets

Much like humans, dogs benefit from routine. Unexpected changes can cause an onset of anxiety, especially common life changes like moving, being placed with a pet sitter or temporary caretaker, and adjusting to a new schedule.

Dog training for separation anxiety gives your pet consistency. When the foundation is secure, your dog can begin to feel safe and at home, no matter where their pet parent may be. Dog training helps anxious pups by developing:

Confidence and good social skills in skittish dogs.
Trust in their owner and a stronger bond between canine and pet parent.
Practice at good behavior prior to their owner leaving home. This allows for less of a shock when a vacation or change in schedule does occur.

Training Provides a Canine Support Group for Anxious Pups

Being a part of a community of dog lovers allows owners to connect and trade tips. Chances are, your dog isn’t the only pup who feels a bit (or a lot) anxious when you leave home. Not only do pet parents receive the benefit of a certified dog trainer to correct their dog’s behavior and ease the nervousness around departure, but participants are able to chat with other owners and find what worked for them, including:

The best dog boarding in Kansas City .
Dog walking apps and services for long work days .
Puppy play groups to help anxious little ones socialize and build confidence.
The best dog friendly trails, parks, restaurants, and outings for times when your pup really wants to be with their favorite person — you!

Managing separation anxiety in dogs can be a challenging endeavor. Take a deep breath and take heart! Dog training for separation anxiety is a wonderful tool for helping your pup feel at ease.

Contact our canine experts today and get signed up for our next class.

The post Inhale, Exhale, Sit, Stay: Dog Training Can Ease Your Pup’s Anxiety. appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Yes, You Can Teach an Old Dog New Tricks!

Wed, 26 May 2021 14:02:00 GMT

Sit Now Stay knows no dog is too old to learn some new tricks — or obedience commands! Teaching senior dogs obedience can be a highly rewarding experience for both owners and elderly pups. Many pet parents worry that their canine companion may be too set in their ways to adapt to new manners. However, senior dog training in Kansas City is the perfect place for your silver fox.

Join a great community of dog lovers for tips on house manners, leash training, behavioral management , and more. We’ll get you started with a few simple tips and need-to-know facts about training older dogs.

Positivity Pays Off

Always approach dog training with an attitude of pawsitivity. Experts have found that positive reinforcement yields long term results when it comes to encouraging good behaviors in companion animals. This technique is especially important for senior dogs who may be wary of changes in their routine. A few simple ways to practice pawsitivity include:

Beginning and ending each training session on a high note with plenty of praise, pets, and treats.
Keeping an upbeat, but firm tone.
Ignore the bad, reward the good.
Exercise patience — senior dogs may be slow to pick up new tricks, but their determination and willingness to please makes up for it!

Take it Slow

Obedience training is no relay race. It’s a dedicated space for you and your dog to bond, grow and learn new tricks. Older dogs have less stamina than puppies and often require a modified training regimen. Support your senior dog training by:

Being mindful of your dog’s physical abilities. While some senior pups may be down for an obstacle course, others may prefer sit and lie down or other activities that are easier on their joints. When leash training, consider harnesses that are easier on your dog’s joints than traditional leads and allow for more control and guidance.
Using hand signals along with verbal cues. Hard of hearing pups will appreciate the reminder!
Introducing new things slowly, especially when the disrupt your old boy or girl’s normal routine.
When it’s time for play and exercise, opt for activities that are low impact and senior approved, like canine swim lessons .
Remaining patient. New commands take time to perfect, but lead the life long good habits.

Consistency is Key

As we age, our memory becomes less sharp and less fine-tuned as it was in our youth. Senior dogs are no different. Consistency and repetition is key for training older dogs. Working with an experienced canine behavioral specialist can help owners tailor training to their dog’s specific needs.

Most importantly, regular classes establish a schedule that’s easy for you and your pup to stick to. The benefits of senior dog obedience classes include:

Being a part of a community of dog lovers. We’re here to hold each other accountable, celebrate our pup’s successes, and lend a paw for those struggle days. Learning from other senior dog owners is a great resource for finding tips and tricks that work for aging dogs.
Enjoying some social time while your dog socializes too! If your older dog is a rescue, he or she may have missed out on some vital puppy social skills. It’s never too late to rebuild those skills and watch your friendly, outgoing dog thrive.
Working with experienced dog trainers in Kansas City that offer years of breed specific and age specific knowledge to help your senior dog in their journey. We’re firm believers that every dog deserves to learn some new tricks!

Start your senior dog training today. There’s no time like the present to connect with the amazing canine community at Sit Now Stay!

The post Yes, You Can Teach an Old Dog New Tricks! appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Start Walking on Sunshine with These Tips to Stop Puppy Leash Pulling

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 14:09:00 GMT

Teaching your new puppy to stop pulling on their leash is a walk in the park with the benefit of a trusted dog trainer on your side. These expert tips are designed with your furbaby in mind by our helpful canine behavior specialists. We’re on a mission to make obedience training in Kansas City a little easier for our pup parents. Whether you’re a new pet owner or an old dog parent looking to learn new tricks, putting a stop to leash pulling is simpler than you might expect.

Learn more about how to walk your puppy without your puppy walking you. We promise, you and your pup will enjoy the journey.

Start with the Right Gear

Choosing the right leash or harness for your puppy is key when it comes to training puppies to walk on a leash. If the leash or harness is uncomfortable, doesn’t fit well, or isn’t giving your pup the proper cue that it’s time to follow and not lead, your puppy may be trying to tell you something is wrong by pulling and tugging on their leash. Different leads are also helpful depending on the activity.

The four basic collar options include:

Flat-buckle Collar. This is your basic collar option and works well for dogs who are already leash trained. It’s typically not the best “training collar” option for puppies, however, and more prone to slipping when pulled on.
Martingale Collar. This collar features an innovative no-slip design making it a great choice for escapees. The collar also provides gentle, corrective tension as a cue to let your dog know not to pull, without the potential dangers associated with traditional choke chains.
Harness. Harnesses come in two varieties; body harnesses or front hook harnesses. Small breed puppies often do well with this design over a traditional leash. The comfortable yet secure method allows them to adventure without yanking on their necks (or your arm).
Halter. Inspired by a horse’s halter, head halters are a good choice for large breed puppies

Active pet parents may also consider investing in a retractable leash for running, biking, and hiking. These specially designed leashes are great for pups (and owners) on the go and work to discourage leash pulling by giving your adventure buddy a little more slack.

Practice Makes Perfect

Learning a new skill can be scary! Introduce your puppy to his or her leash before venturing out. Allow them to wear the leash or harness around the house so they get used to the feel. Always reward your pup with plenty of treats and praise so they begin to associate their leash with good things to come.

Our expert dog trainers employ the tried and true principles of positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior!

Other leash practice tips include:

Assign a command to leash training so your puppy gets in the habit of expecting it when it’s time to “leash up.” Clicker training is a great tool to use in teaching your new puppy to recognize cues.
Make your puppy come to you when it’s time for a walk. Never chase your pup around the house. This will encourage the “fun” of leash pulling.
Don’t allow your puppy to chew or tug on the lead, no matter how irresistibly cute they are. A simple, but firm movement is enough to pull the lead from their mouth and continue walking.
Once your pup has mastered the art of wearing their new gear, take them outside to a secured yard or sidewalk nearby their home for some real time practice.

Managing Leash Pulling When Out and About

Of course, all the diligent practice in the world can’t always prevent a determined leash puller. If your puppy tugs and yanks while out on a walk, follow these easy tips to manage and correct their behavior:

Don’t give in to leash pulling. If your puppy starts to pull in one direction, stand firm, channel your inner statue, take a breath, and pause. By not moving or responding, your pup will eventually get bored and return to their walk. This ensures bad behavior is never encouraged or given attention. And yes, even negative attention like shouting or waving your arms can encourage a stubborn pup!
Do not yank or jerk your dog in response. Rely on training tools like harnesses and halters to do their job instead.
Never drag your dog. Not only does this steal all the fun from a walk, but dragging your puppy in the direction you want them to go doesn’t teach them to obey your commands and trust in you to keep them on track.
Encourage good leash manners instead by keeping small treats in your pocket and offering a few when your pup stays close by. This is an easy, simple way to teach puppies to heel without yanking, tugging, or dragging.
If your puppy becomes distracted while on a walk, have a signal to redirect attention like a command or clicker. Herding and hunting breeds may be more prone to pulling if they catch a sniff of something exciting. Be mindful of these tendencies so you can manage them before they become an issue.
Keep your dog engaged on the walk by allowing them to move at their own pace, enjoy relaxing in the grass, or pick up the pace for a brisk run when your pup is getting bored.

With a few easy training tools, you and your new puppy will be off on your next adventure in no time.

Looking for puppy training nearby? Chat with our canine behavior experts today and find the perfect obedience training match for your new furry family member.

The post Start Walking on Sunshine with These Tips to Stop Puppy Leash Pulling appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Is Your Dog Cold? Some Tips to Keep Your Pooch Warm and Cozy This Winter

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 14:35:00 GMT

If you’re feeling the cold, chances are your dog is too (unless maybe you own a Husky!). Dogs can get hypothermia and frostbite.

Most dogs will tend to feel cold at about 50 degrees, even if they have a fluffy coat, but your dog may be different. So, watch for signs that your dog is cold and then follow these tips on how to warm them up.

How to Tell if Your Dog is Cold

Dogs communicate very well with your owners. If your dog is cold, chances are they are trying their best to let you know. Here are some things to watch for:

Shivering. Just like people, dogs shiver when they are cold.
Not wanting to go for a walk. If your dog takes one look outside and says no thanks, it might be that they don’t want to go outside in the cold. They might also try to drag you home.
Trying to burrow into warm places . This includes indoors…if you can’t find your dog and there’s a lump in your bed, they might be trying to tell you something.
Holding paws up , or shifting rapidly from one paw to another. This is likely a sign that their feet are cold.
Tucking their tail between their legs. Your dog’s “behind” can get colder faster and they are trying to use their tail to warm it up.
Their ears and nose feel cold.
Cracking or chapping of nose or paws.

Any of these mean your dog needs to be warmed up…or at least will appreciate it. So, how can you warm your dog up?

Some Tips for Warming Up Your Dog

The most obvious thing to do is bring your dog outside. However, cold or not, your dog still needs to go for walks and they may well enjoy playing in the snow. There are also some easy things you can do:

Get them a coat, sweater , or jacket. Short furred dogs are more likely to need a coat than longer furred ones, and greyhounds and chihuahuas tend to feel the cold the most. Look at different weights of coat and ask advice of other owners or your vet if you aren’t sure. Make sure that the coat fits correctly. If your dog isn’t used to wearing clothes, take some time to make them comfortable.
Care for their paws. Wash their paws when they come inside, especially if deicer is being used. If your dog shows signs of cold feet, consider getting them a set of booties. Another alternative is paw wax, which is what sled dog owners use to protect paws in snow and ice. Some dogs won’t tolerate footwear, and wax can work better if they are happier with it.
Add an extra blanket to their bed. If your dog shows signs of being cold while indoors, then they may appreciate an extra blanket to burrow under. If you have a pooch that feels the cold a lot, give them a warming pad. Self-warming pads are great for crates.
When you go out on a walk, put an old towel in the dryer on a low setting. Wrap the dog up in it when they come back to help them warm up quickly.
Don’t leave your dog outside unattended in the winter. If they want to play in the yard, keep an eye on them so you can let them back in as soon as they ask. Keep walks short and brisk…consider taking toys so you can get your dogs to exercise more vigorously for a shorter period of time.
Watch your dog’s weight and increase feed if needed. If your dog drops a few pounds when the temperature drops, then they’re burning too many calories staying warm.

Your dogs can get cold in winter, so make sure that you are paying attention, noting when they are cold, and giving them what they need to warm up. As your dog experts in Lenexa , we can help you with advice on how to properly care for and protect your dog in all circumstances. Contact us to find out more.

The post Is Your Dog Cold? Some Tips to Keep Your Pooch Warm and Cozy This Winter appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

5 Essential Dog Training Commands

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 15:47:00 GMT

You just got a new puppy, and amidst all the excitement, you forgot about dog training commands! While there are many fun things you can train your puppy to do, there are five key commands to teach your dog.

Sit/Lay Down

While the sit command is pretty basic and is typically the first command you will teach your dog, it is a significant one. According to Scott H. of Iheartdogs.com , Teaching your dog how to sit can help with convenience, safety, and civility.

Knowing how to sit is convenient because it allows you to get your dog to stay in one place. This could be helpful if you need to move around while cleaning and need your dog to not get in the way.

In terms of safety, when walking your dog, you could ask him to sit if you are coming across people or other animals to stop him from going near them. Finally, many people don’t enjoy dogs jumping on them, so commanding your dog to sit will help with that.

Along with the “sit” command is the “lay down” command. These achieve basically the same results, but the training is a little different.

Stay

The “stay” command has many of the same benefits as the “sit” command. It will keep your dog locked in one place for whatever reason you need him to stay. Whether this is to keep him out from under your feet, to keep him safe, or to keep him away from people.

Down

Dogs can be naughty and get into things they should not be in. For example, they might jump up onto the counter or onto furniture they are not allowed on. It is important your dog knows the command to get down.

This could potentially be a safety concern as your dog could get somewhere that is dangerous. If your dog knows the down command, you can quickly and calmly get them out of the situation.

Drop It

Your puppy is exploring its new surroundings, and it has discovered your favorite pair of fuzzy slippers. They immediately go in his mouth, and nothing you do is getting him to let go. This is one example of where the “drop it” command comes in handy.

You want your dog to drop things on command if they pick up something dangerous to them. Perhaps they pick up something they could choke on or something hazardous to their health. You want your dog to be able to quickly drop the item so it can’t cause him harm.

Come

Dogs have a mind of their own, and they do not always want to do what you want them to do. Teaching your dog the “come” command will ensure that when you want your dog to follow you, they will do so.

According to Robbi Hess of Figo , the “come” command can be a lifesaver, especially when it comes to getting your dog to come back if he slips out of his leash.

Order of Learning Commands

There is an order you should use when teaching your dog training commands. The order is based on ease and safety; however, you do not necessarily have to teach the commands in this order. It is the following:

Sit/lay down
Down
Drop it
Come
Stay

Remember that patience is key when teaching your dog commands. They are not going to get everything right on the first try. Just keep working on it with them a little bit each day, and they will get it over time. Make sure to stock up on treats to make the process easier.

At Sit Now Stay Dog Training , we are happy to help you with dog training classes.

For more information, contact us today.

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The Average Cost of Dog Training Explained

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 15:55:00 GMT

Dog training sets the framework for a lifetime of happiness for you and your dog. A properly trained dog is mentally and physically well and enjoys spending time with humans and other dogs alike. This is what makes picking the right trainer one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a dog owner.

To make your search for the perfect trainer a little easier, it is helpful for you to know the average cost of dog training, the different types of dog training and what questions will be especially helpful to ask when screening a potential trainer.

What Are The Factors That Affect Dog Training Costs?

Dog training costs can be affected by your location and the availability of dog training services. The age and breed of your dog can also be a factor that impacts the price of training. The earlier you can enroll your dog in training classes , the better. This will save you from the frustration of challenging puppy behaviors and damage to your home and belongings.

Dog obedience school has a national average of $500 to $1,250 per week.

What Are The Different Types of Dog Training?

There are many factors that can contribute to the cost of dog training in your area. One of these factors centers around the type of dog training you are seeking. The other factors include location, the experience level of your trainer and whether your dog will be trained in a group or in private lessons.

Private Dog Training

Private dog training classes will range from $45 to $120 per lesson. These classes typically offer the convenience of flexible scheduling and may be able to be held either at the dog training facility or in your own home.

Group Dog Training

The national average cost of group dog training classes is $30 to $80 per class. Group lessons are usually offered at the same time or times weekly and may be less costly if you pay for multiple classes upfront.

Board and Train Classes

Board and train programs train your dog while they stay at the training facility for the entire duration of their program. The average cost of board and train programs range from $500 to $1,250 weekly.

Boot Camp

Doggy boot camp is usually instructed everyday for a certain amount of time. With this type of training, you are able to drop your dog off for a day of lessons and then pick them up at the end of the day. Doggy boot camp costs an average of $35 to $75 daily.

Puppy Preschool

Puppy preschool is usually offered for dogs aged 7-16 weeks who have already been vaccinated. This offers a setting for your puppy to be casually socialized with other dogs and helps to curb destructive behaviors early. Puppy preschool will cost from $30 to $50 daily.

Why Should I Hire A Professional Dog Trainer?

While some pet parents may find it suitable to train their dogs at home, there are many benefits to choosing a professional dog trainer. A certified dog trainer can bring experience and proven methods to lessons with your dog. Professional dog trainers have the ability to decode dog behaviors to help to correct inappropriate ones and positively reinforce desirable ones. Your dog trainer will also be able to offer tips and tricks to help you reinforce their training at home.

Questions For Your Dog Trainer

You may find that choosing the perfect dog trainer that specializes in the type of training your dog needs proves difficult. Knowing the right questions to ask a prospective trainer makes it much easier. Here are some questions you should always ask before hiring a dog trainer.

How long have you been training dogs?
How much experience do you have with my dog’s breed?
Am I responsible for buying any training equipment? What type of equipment do you use?
What types of training methods do you use?
How do you manage undesirable dog behaviors?
Will you be able to tell if my dog is distressed during training? How do you handle stressed or anxious dogs?
Do you guarantee any results?

Be sure to ask potential trainers if they offer additional training if your dog needs more work and how much that would cost. Even once your dog has begun lessons, it is okay to choose to move onto another trainer who you find fits your needs better. Your relationship with your dog’s trainer is a partnership that should promote healthy communication surrounding your pup’s happiness and health.

If you’re ready to begin your search for a dog trainer, we hope Sit Now Stay will be your first call. We have a staff of certified dog trainers who offer experience in many types of training that range from basic manners and obedience to behavior modification to dog performance and special task training.

Fill out our contact form to see if we fit your needs or call us today at (913) 735-7392 .

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Is Your Dog Destroying Your Furniture? Here’s How to Stop Them

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 18:10:00 GMT

Why Does My Dog Chew Everything ?

At some point or another, every dog parent has come home to discover that their four-legged housemate has made some item of their home a sacrifice to the chew gods. It’s maddening, but usually, your dog has perfectly natural reasons for gnawing on your furniture.

Not all chewing is destructive chewing, there are plenty of reasons why your dog may display this behavior. Three common reasons for your pup’s chewing habit are:

puppy teething ; like in infants, puppies also deal with a great deal of oral discomfort. As their adult teeth grow in they turn to chewing to offer relief.

mouth and jaw health ; chewing is an instinctual practice that allows dogs to clean their teeth. It also helps them exercise and strengthen their jaws.

boredom or mild anxiety ; dogs often find comfort in using chewing. Chewing can be a method to entertain themselves when bored or distract themselves from anxiety.

Most often, the challenge comes in if your dog is exhibiting bad, or destructive , chewing habits. When good chewing practices are promoted and rewarded, these behaviors are healthy. They are part of your dog processing and exploring the world around them.

Reasons for Destructive Chewing in Dogs

Fabric sucking, licking or chewing are types of destructive behaviors. It’s common belief that these behaviors are caused when a dog is weaned from their mother too early. This behavior may occur for long periods of time and may be compulsive, especially if you notice that it is difficult to distract your pup or get them to disengage in the behavior once they’ve begun.

If you’ve put your dog on a calorie-restricted diet, your dog may turn to chewing various things as a way to search for additional food or nutrients. This may be the case if the items they chew are related to, or smell like, food.

Separation anxiety is a condition in which a dog responds to feelings of distress. This happens after being separated from their owner through extreme behaviors. Dogs may exhibit signs of separation anxiety as their guardian prepares to leave home. They may drool, pace back and forth, whine or even attempt to block their owner from leaving home.

A dog experiencing separation anxiety may continue behaviors once their guardian has left the home. These behaviors may include barking, intentionally destructive chewing, digging or clawing, urination, and defecation. They may attempt to escape their home, yard or kennel, which can be very dangerous to their health and safety.

Sit Now Stay offers behavior modification training for separation anxiety as well as for various types of impulse control. Call us today at (913) 735-7392 to schedule a FREE consultation and learn more about how we can assist you in helping your dog overcome destructive chewing.

How To Stop Your Dog’s Destructive Chewing

You may be relieved to hear that you do have the power to stop your dog from gnawing up everything you own. Some preparation (and a lot of patience) can help you bring your dog’s destructive chewing habit to an end.

Promote Positive Chewing Habits

Have you ever heard the saying “ if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em ”? Well, this is kinda like that. Make your home more chew-friendly by making appropriate chew toys more accessible to your dog.

Using a variety of toys will key your dog entertained. You may also make several different toys accessible to your dog at different times throughout the day to keep it fun and interesting for them.

Types of dog toys may be:

Rawhide
Pig Ears
Bones
Plush Toys
Kongs
Plush Toys
Kongs

Spray Chew Deterrents

Is your pup is chewing on your furniture and no amount of chew toys and positive reinforcements seems to be helping? It may be time to enlist the assistance of a spray deterrent. Spray deterrents have unpleasant tastes that can range from spicy-hot to bitter.

There are many different brands to choose from, you may even make your own. The trick to finding success with spray deterrents is teaching dogs to recognize an association between the disagreeable taste of the substance and its smell. This can be as simple as having your dog taste the flavor of the spray once. After this, spray the parts of furniture your dog likes to chew with the spray every day for two to four weeks.

Keep Your Dog Active

Not only is making sure that your pup stays active and fit great for their overall health and well-being, but it also ensures that they’ll be exhausted by the end of their fun-filled days and less likely to engage in anxiety or boredom-triggered behaviors.

When It’s Time To Involve a Professional

Chewing for reasons outside of healthy self-care or soothing, this behavior may become destructive. Destructive chewing is an issue caused by a disturbance in your dog’s mental or emotional well-being. If you feel that handling the chewing behavior has expanded beyond your capabilities, it should be addressed by a dog trainer or behaviorist.

Sit Now Stay has a dedicated staff of certified dog training professionals. Our team is experienced and knowledgeable in methods that break dogs of destructive habits and reinforce positive ones. We’re here to help you and your furry friend co-exist healthily and happily. We offer success driven training methods that will do just that.

Call us today at (913) 735-7392 to schedule your FREE consultation and be on your way to ending your dog’s destructive chewing.

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Road Trip Tips For Driving With Your Dog

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 08:13:00 GMT

The sights, the smells, the speed; car rides are bliss for dogs. Some pet behaviorists believe this is due to that fact that car rides can mimic the sensations that dogs experience when hunting in packs.

From moving synchronically with the other members of the car (their “pack”) as the car sways and maneuvers to the accelerated speed of travel and the challenge to their superior olfactory senses (did you know that dogs possess about 3 million olfactory sensors in their noses?), car rides are a holistic sensory experience that can be a thrilling adventure for a dog.

As a dog owner, It’s always hugely entertaining to watch your canine companion; leaning out the window, tongue out, ears flapping in the wind, panting with pure joy. During this adorable display of unadulterated pooch satisfaction, it may not occur to you to ask the question:

Is this the safest way for my dog to travel in the car?

Of course, as a loving pet parent, you want to ensure the safety of your pet at all times. Allowing your pup to sail down the road with their head out the window is seemingly harmless–and incredibly cute but there are some potential dangers that can be quite injurious to your pooch and their overall health.

How To Safely Travel With Your Dog

Of course, as a loving pet parent, you want to ensure the safety of your pet at all times. Car rides are a fun and exciting way to travel with your dog that allows you both to enjoy your surroundings together. Before you disem bark on your next adventure, here are some safety tips that will help you ensure that your travels adventures keep you and your pooch safe.

…On A Short Trip

Keep your pooch fully inside of the car.

Anytime your dog is traveling in a car, make sure that their head and paws always stay inside of the car. The reasons for this are substantial. Besides the dangerous projectiles that could strike them and harm or injure their eyes or body, wind damage occurs when a dog’s soft earflaps, or pinnae, become damaged and inflamed if their ears are exposed to high-speed winds for prolonged periods of time.

Furthermore, dogs falling out of car windows is very much a real possibility. As you drive, quick turns or a large bump could cause your pup to lose their balance and fall out of the vehicle, which could cause injury or death.

This also means that dogs riding in pickup truck beds is a big safety no-no. Dogs riding in open truck beds face the potential dangers of leaning out of a car window tenfold.

The safest way for a dog to travel by car, is in a crate that they can comfortably lie, sit, stand-up and turn around in. If you cannot use a crate, your dog should be in the back seat or cargo area, wearing a harness attached to a seat belt buckle at all times that your vehicle is moving.

Never leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle.

Even if you know you’ll only be away from your car for a short while, a hot car can become dangerously hot much more quickly than you’d expect, even with the windows down (which could also present the possibility for your dog to escape, or be taken from, your vehicle) the onset of canine hyperthermia, or heat stroke, can occur very quickly.

In the winter months, it takes no time at all for your unmoving vehicle to become an icebox, resulting in freezing conditions and painful and dangerous frostbite for your pup.

…On A Long Car Ride

When driving long distances with your dog, you’ll of course want to follow all of the precautions stated above, but also take some additional provisions to make sure your scenic journey goes seamlessly.

Bring your dog’s rabies vaccination record.

Pro tip: some states require proof of rabies vaccination for pets when crossing state lines. Also, while it is very likely that you won’t need it, unexpected accidents do happen, it is critically important to have this documentation on hand if your dog bites someone or another dog.

Also make sure that your dog has proper identification in the event that they become separated from you.

Pack a pup-friendly travel kit.

This pooch-preparedness kit should include a poop scoop, plastic bags, food, feeding and water bowls, a leash, and any grooming supplies you may need. Also, outfit your kit with your dog’s medication and a first aid kit. Be sure to pack plenty of water and stop regularly for water and bathroom breaks for your dog.

Enjoy Your Adventures… Safely!

Ensuring that your dog is safe and secure during your driving excursions, may mean that Fido can no longer be able to lean, unabashedly, outside of the car window–but it doesn’t mean they’ll enjoy the ride any less. For your four legged co-pilot, spending time with their favorite human and going on a new adventure will be more than enough to keep them delighted.

If you have any questions about traveling with your pup or notice your dog has trouble with travel or crate anxiety, contact Sit Now Stay at (913) 735-7392 for a FREE consultation, our dog-loving experts are happy to offer group or private obedience training and would love to answer any questions you may have!

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Service Dog 101: What You Need To Know

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 08:21:00 GMT

What is a Service Dog?

There are thousands of assistance, or service dogs across the United States who serve people of varying disabilities and levels of ability in a multitude of aspects of their lives. For these dogs and their handlers, or those who utilize the talents of service dogs, this equally beneficial and enriching relationship allows both members to flourish and live fulfilling lives.

A service dog is a professional working dog that is specially trained to assist individuals or groups of individuals who experience a wide array of disabilities or medical conditions to live independently day-to-day.

Types of service dogs include:

Guide dogs for those with vision impairments
Hearing dogs
Seizure disorder response dogs
Mental health service dogs
Mobility assistance dogs

While they are a necessary part of life for many people who require assistance in their daily lives, therapy dogs and emotional support dogs (ESA’s) are not legally considered to be service dogs.

Living With Service Dogs

Despite the common misconception, service dogs are not pets. They are always working and must be treated accordingly. It is not appropriate to distract service dogs by petting them, feeding them, making sounds to get their attention, or otherwise keeping them for performing their jobs.

It is acceptable and well-within the best interest of a handler’s safety to ask anyone who is distracting their service companion to cease their behaviors immediately.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) forbids establishments like restaurants, stores, and state and local government facilities from preventing service dogs entrance. With that being said, it is expected that service dogs be kept restrained in a harness or on a leash when in public spaces, as long as these restraints do not inhibit the dog’s ability to care for its handler.

Can Any Dog Be a Service Dog?

Dogs of any breed or size can be a service dog. There is no age restriction for professional working dogs but it is suggested that a service dog begin its training in the first two-and-a-half years of life because training does can take multiple months to years to complete.

Many dogs have natural talents that allow them to be the perfect professional companion, but the primary factors that determine whether a dog will be a successful service dog are their temperament, social intelligence and obedience skills.

How Are Service Dogs Trained?

There are several ways to go about training a service dog. Some handlers choose to personally train their service dogs to their specific needs and disabilities and adapt their training practices over time to accommodate their evolving needs. Another common option is to have your service dog professional trained in private or group lessons .

Some of the specific behaviors and skills that an assistance dog should be evaluated on include its:

Physical health
Mental health
Cleanliness
Ability to focus in very distracting situations
Calm body language
Not highly reward motivated, and a collection of others

Call Sit Now Stay today at (913) 735-7392 to set up a free training consultation and we can help you determine if your dog would be a good candidate for service dog training.

You may have a dog who you would like to take some lessons to improve its manners and temperament before ultimately moving on to service dog training, consider preparing your dog to take the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Program. This program is a prerequisite for registration with many therapy dog organizations.

Sit Now Stay offers training opportunities with a certified and award-winning staff that develops and reinforces the behaviors that are favorable for passing the CGC Program and/or completing specialized training for service dogs.

Enlist The Guidance of Dog Behavior Specialist

Our staff at Sit Now Stay houses a combined 30 years of experience with dog training and offer a multitude of programs which emphasize result-based training. We can help equip your service dog with all the tools necessary to provide the level of obedience and leadership needed to enhance your life.

Call us at (913) 735-7392 or contact us to set up a free consultation today!

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Managing Canine Obesity

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 14:28:00 GMT

Investing in the health of your dog is one of the most important ways you can express your love and commitment to your canine counterpart. This includes taking the steps necessary to make sure your dog maintains a healthy weight. Because of their small frames, even a few extra pounds can make a significant impact on your dog’s health. If you notice that your pup has packed on some extra pounds, It may be time to take control of their weight and employ weight-loss efforts.

Learning what help is available to you and your pooch doesn’t have to be daunting. There are many resources that specialize in weight loss techniques and programs that will help you make your dog’s weight loss goals a success and contribute positively to their quality of life.

After all, any pet owner will agree; a healthy dog is a happy dog.

Spotlight on Dog Obesity Statistics

As reported last year by The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), the canine obesity epidemic continues to be a concern. In 2018, 55.8% of dogs are categorized as overweight or obese as diagnosed by a healthcare professional. This estimates that a current 50 million dogs are living at an unhealthy weight, with professionals expecting this number to continue to rise.

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), some of the factors that contribute to pet obesity include:

Age ; obesity rates rise as pets grow older,
Breed ; both very large and very small breeds have higher instances of unhealthy weight,
Overeating , and
Lack of physical activity

Some of the negative health impacts that an unhealthy weight can have on your dog include: developing arthritis, diabetes, kidney and heart disease, high blood pressure, as well as a higher risk of developing many forms of cancer.

Most Effective Weight Lost Strategies For Dogs

In a survey conducted by APOP, pet owners relay the two most successful strategies for pet weight loss are as follows:

Calorie reduction ; with 71% of pet owners finding it to be an effective strategy, and
Increased exercise ; which was found to be effective by 66% of respondents.

Managing Your Dog’s Diet

While it’s clear that calorie reduction is a highly effective method of promoting weight loss in dogs,picking the best dietary plan for your dog specifically is much less obvious. Dr. Ernie Ward, veterinarian and co-author of the peer-reviewed American Animal Hospital Association’s (AAHA) Weight Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, address the plentiful number of dog food choices available to dog owners and that this may contribute to confusion on how best to nourish your pooch, as many choices offer conflicting dietary advice.

Dr. Ward, and many other healthcare professionals strongly recommend that owners look to and collaborate with veterinary professionals to determine an individualized dietary strategy for your dog.

Fitness Strategies For You Dog

There are as many ways to keep your dog active as there are breeds of dogs. Going on longer walks (veterinarians suggest at least one brisk 30-minute walk daily), using squeaky toys and balls to encourage play, and implementing variety in physical activities to keep your pup engaged in playful exercises are just a few ways to keep your dog active and healthy.

Dog fitness programs are effective tools in encouraging weight loss. These programs are designed for your dog by professionals to address your pet’s needs while taking your specific health goals into consideration. Consider one-on-one coaching where you and your dog will meet with a certified canine fitness coach and you can learn about canine fitness strategies and how they can best fit your dog’s needs.

Another effective and beneficial method of exercise for your dog is swimming. Swimming is a whole-body workout for dogs and provides both cardio and strength training without putting strain on their joints. Many dogs adapt very quickly to swimming and an added benefit is that swimming is one of the many healthy activities you and your dog can enjoy together!

Sit Now Stay offers Kansas City’s only indoor dog pool . Swim lessons and water therapy are available with options for both private and group sessions that fit you and your pup’s lifestyle and needs.

Healthy Weight, Happy Dog

Taking the first steps in managing dog obesity is one of the most loving things you can do for your furry best friend. There are many strategies to choose from when developing your dog’s weight loss plan; don’t hesitate to involve professionals to get started on a confident and knowledgeable foot. Your dog will be happy you did.

Call Sit Now Stay today at (913) 372-3101 and let our loving canine professionals help you and your pooch along their healthy, happy journey.

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How To Plant A Dog-Friendly Garden

Tue, 05 May 2020 09:31:00 GMT

Finally! It’s Springtime. After a long, sleepy winter, the days are waking up in their typically fashionable way. The birds are busy and singing, the daylight hours are growing longer– and warmer, and lawns are being prepped and readied to become homes to beautiful gardens.

After indulging in daydreams of vibrant salads, nutrient-packed smoothies, and sunny plant-adorned meals enjoyed in a floral wonderland the last thing you could conceive of would be your furry pal taking an eager paw to your garden and destroying all your carefully laid-out dreams. Without the proper knowledge, keeping your garden a sanctuary for growing might seem impossible, but there are a few additional steps you can take to restore your confidence…and your green-thumb.

Here’s how to grow your delightful garden and keep it safe for (and from) Benji and his surely well-intentioned exploits.

Know Which Plants Are Dog-Safe and Dog-Toxic

You don’t need to become a phytotoxicologist (why yes, that indeed IS the name of someone who studies plant poisons), but gaining a general knowledge of what plants have the potential to be harmful or harmless to your dog will be necessary. Some common garden plants that can be toxic to dogs are onions, tomato plant leaves, lilies, and tulips.

The ASPCA has a remarkably comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants, here you can check (and double-check) the list for plants you would like to grow and make sure they are dog-friendly. You may also check with your local nursery as an additional knowledgeable and trusted resource.

Plan to avoid using toxic fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides in your garden as they may be a danger to your pooch’s safety even without being consumed.

If you do choose to include any dog-toxic plants in your garden, always use a solid barrier that will protect your dog from accidental ingestion. If you suspect that your dog has ingested a toxic plant, contact your vet immediately.

Inversely, including green beans, some berries, parsley, rosemary and thyme in your garden can be mutually beneficial for you and your canine companion as they all offer health benefits such as vitamins and antioxidants that (in small doses) can be added to your dog’s meals for a nutritional boost. Dog parenting win!

Choose More Mature Plants For Planting

Choosing to use plants that have already been grown from seed can increase the likelihood of durability and continual growth if your pup does get it’s adorable, floofy paws on it. This is because of a mature plant’s ability to establish strong roots more quickly than a seedling. Also, a damaged thriving plant is likely to survive to the subsequent growing season. Resiliency is the name of the game here.

Use Dog-Proof Garden Spaces

Planting your garden in a raised bed or a container that cuts off access to furry critters is a fool-proof way of protecting your greenery, even more so if you also choose to use a bed cover. These can be purchased or, for you DIYers, a quick Google search, some chicken wire, and PVC pipe is all that stands between you and a gardener’s piece of mind.

Try Border Plants

Low-lying gardens can make use of vegetation that also acts as a barrier for unwanted visitors. Thornless hawthorne varieties, magnolia bushes, and forsythias are all tall-growing and attractive dog-friendly additions to your gardenscape, especially if you’re looking for plant-varietal security guards.

Using pungent plants around the border of your garden is also a natural method of keeping your four-legged friend at bay. Any casual snoot-booper can tell you that dogs are gifted with super senses of smell. One of the things this means is that plants with strong odors can actually repel your pet.

Some scents that are disliked by pups are lemon, pepper, lavender, and the scent marigolds. For the lemon and pepper scents, lemon balm and nasturtium will “spice up” your efforts; both dog-averting and culinary.

Create A “Go Play” Area

All garden and no play makes pup a sad boy.

Creating a fun, interesting space for your dog to run and play will keep them interested in meaningful play and out of trouble. Natural fixtures and obstacles like, lying logs, stumps, and rocks are entertaining for puppers as they get in their daily zooms and can double as makeshift paths around your garden. You may also choose to create a designated digging area for your dog and train them to use that area alone to practice their excavation skills.

And, of course, any dog-friendly garden includes a nice, shaded spot with a water bowl for relaxing and naps. Whether you’re also taking advantage of those naps in the shade is entirely up to you.

Enjoy Your Dog Friendly Garden

The true marker of a dog friendly yard with a garden is balance. Having a multi-use space that allows you to cultivate your plants– and let’s your pooch be a pooch. He’s a good boy, he totally deserves it.

The fruits of your labor, your know-how, and your puppy love will pay off in the form of nutritious, home-grown food and a happy, healthy dog. Enjoy!

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Top 3 Reasons for Your Dog to Socialize Early

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 09:36:00 GMT

Believe it or not, dogs are social animals by nature. Like the packs of wolves they descended from thousands of years ago, today’s dogs have a desire to be around other dogs. While many dog owners raise them alone at home, there are many benefits to getting your dog out to socialize early in their life. Even if your dog isn’t the most social creature, you owe it to them to give them a shot.

Relaxation and Exercise

While dogs don’t make plans to hang out and watch the big game like humans, they still develop friendships with other dogs. Pets that get the chance to play at dog parks will come home sleepy and ready to peacefully dream about running around some more.

Not only does this make your job as an owner easier, it gives your dog something to look forward to. And since your dog is probably going to brag to their friends about what a great parent you are, why wouldn’t you want them to meet others? If you’re tired of walking your dog around the same boring streets in your neighborhood, think of how dull the scenery must seem to them!

Meeting new dogs can make even a tired scene interesting again. Plus, taking your dog to a brand new place to socialize is even more exciting!

Confidence

All the in-home training in the world isn’t going to make your dog feel confident. Just like humans, dogs need feedback and validation from the same species. It might look like your dog is just sniffing the other dogs and then barking at them, but it’s all part of a social ritual that reminds your dog that they’re part of a community. Belonging brings confidence and it will carry into every aspect of your dog’s life.

Until dogs start socializing, the only social hierarchy they’re aware of is the one between you and them. Figuring out where they fit in socially with other dogs can get them thinking in brand new ways. Just like you would take your dog out for a walk, it’s important to exercise their mind too. Canine social dynamics can be fascinating to observe, too. Sometimes the smallest dogs are the bravest, and vice versa.

Easier Transitions

At some point in your pup’s life you’ll need to take them to get shots or stay with another family (or at Camp Pupaway ,) when you’re out of town. Socializing helps dogs acclimate to new situations and conditions. A dog that’s never really been out of the house will have trouble adjusting.

However, one that’s met other dogs and understands that there’s a whole world out there will fit into their new situation more quickly. Initially, seeing that there’s a world outside your house or apartment can be a real surprise to your dog. But once they’re out there and they’re experiencing life (and other dogs), things can change for the better and your dog will be more open to future adjustments.

New experiences for your dog can certainly be a hassle sometimes. With our busy day-to-day lives, it’s tough to make time to take our dogs out to see other pets. But getting them out and socializing goes a long way toward giving them a more fulfilling life. The exercise will help keep them relaxed and healthy, interacting with other dogs will give them confidence, and they’ll continue to acclimate to the world around them.

If your dog needs a little bit of help training before you let them loose on the pets of the world, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Sit Now Stay proudly serves the training, daycare, and boarding needs of dogs in the Kansas City area.

The post Top 3 Reasons for Your Dog to Socialize Early appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Oops Proof Tips for Potty Training Your New Puppy

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 14:42:00 GMT

From wagging tails to their first “awroo!”, there are so many cherished moments of new pet parenthood. At Sit Now Stay , we know that potty training isn’t among our top ten new puppy moments! Teaching your canine companion the finer points of housebreaking can be a trial of patience for our Kansas City fur-moms and dads.

Consider these simple tips for taking the stress out of potty training so you can get back to more snuggles, puppy kisses, and belly rubs.

1.) Create a Schedule

Puppies, just like toddlers, thrive on consistency and repetition. Develop a routine based around your dog’s anticipated potty breaks. This will help prevent accidents and train your new best friend on a schedule. A good rule of thumb is to take your dog out to potty immediately after waking up and 10-15 minutes after each meal.

Generally speaking, puppies are able to control their bladder for one hour per month of age. This means if your pup is two months old, they can go about two hours without a potty break.

For puppies and small breeds, you’ll want to work in several other ” need to potty? ” moments throughout the day, even if your tiny friend hasn’t asked to go outside yet. Small bladders require lots of breaks to save your floors and your patience!

Older dogs can often go a bit longer without a scheduled break. However, if you’ve adopted an adult dog, it’s a good idea to get them used to the household schedule.

2.) Crate Training to Potty Perfection

Dogs are pack animals and rely on their human parents to provide them with a safe, warm den. Crate training is a key part of the housebreaking process. Think of the crate as your dog’s safe space. Add a few touches of home, like their favorite blanket and cuddle toy. This will help them associate familiar smells with a sense of security.

Dogs are naturally clean animals with an instinctive tendency to keep their den clean. Crate training allows your pup to understand the difference between indoor spaces and outdoor spaces — and which ones are acceptable to relieve themselves in!

Be sure to pay attention to the size of the crate. While it’s important for your best furry friend to have sufficient space, too much space can be overwhelming and may lead your puppy to designating a potty corner. A good crate should be snug enough to feel like home.

3.) Puppy Pads, Potty Commands, and Favorite Trees

Don’t be afraid to use training tools! Puppy pads are a great way to gradually wean your dog towards going outside. Designating a command such as “

go potty ” can also be helpful in encouraging your pet to adopt a routine. Take your dog to the same spot each time to establish a sense of familiarity. Your dog will be naturally drawn to a favorite patch of grass, tree, or dirt p.ile if they’ve already left their scent previously.

Don’t forget to reward them for a job well done! Small treats are perfect for training, along with plenty of praise and positive reinforcement.

4.) Leave it to the Professionals

Even the best pet parents need a break! Professional dog training and puppy classes are a fantastic way to learn the basics, as well as help your new pet socialize, bond, and gain lifelong obedience skills. Our expert staff are certified in AVECCT-VTS, IACP, CCPDT, and have completed the Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers.

We know every pup is special. That’s why we’ve implemented custom training solutions to get to fit your dog. Contact our canine experts today and get started on your free training consultation!

The post Oops Proof Tips for Potty Training Your New Puppy appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Part of the Pack: The Importance of Socializing Your Dog Early

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 11:47:00 GMT

Your best furry friend has the heart of a wolf inside that adorable, cuddle monster exterior. That’s why every dog needs a pack to call their own. At Sit Now Stay, our experts are committed to providing comprehensive obedience classes that go beyond the basics. Creating a stimulating environment for our Kansas City canines is key when to dog socializing.

Learn more about the importance of group playtime for turning your nervous pup into a social butterfly.

Building Canine Confidence

Think of group dog training as puppy preschool. Just like toddlers, puppies build confidence through socialization . Puppy peers inspire younger dogs to be brave and explore new smells and sights, while older dogs act as role models for good behavior. The first year of a dog’s life is the most critical when it comes to learning and developing positive manners.

Puppies who are provided with plenty of opportunities for playtime and bonding time with other dogs grow into calmer adults. This is because group training teaches dogs to be comfortable in a variety of new situations, which prevents canine anxiety and stress. Calm dogs are less likely to act in a fearful or aggressive manner when faced with a new friend or a new situation. Any behavioral quirks that arise during training can be identified early on and properly managed.

With a properly socialized pup, the sky’s the limit, whether your adventures take you to the park, doggie daycare , or a staycation at your friendly, neighborhood boarding facility .

A Tired Puppy is a Good Puppy

If you’re a new pet parent, you’ve probably noticed that no matter how many times you throw your dog’s favorite toy, puppies still have energy to spare. Obedience classes aren’t all about the behavior. Group dog training is a way for your pup to have some fun, interact with other dogs, play, and exercise. Once a dog feels comfortable playing with others, this sets the stage for lifelong habits like weekend dog park trips and puppy play dates with friends and neighbors.

Building a routine while your dog is young is highly important when it comes to promoting good manners down the road. Separation anxiety can lead to destructive behavior including chewing furniture, barking and whining, and frequent accidents indoors. Luckily, socializing your dog is one of the best ways to manage and prevent canine anxiety. Exercise relieves stress and tires your pup out so they’ll sleep soundly while you’re out and about.

Connect with a Community

Not only is group dog training a great opportunity for your pup to make new friends, but obedience classes are the perfect way to meet new pet parents just like you! Trade tips on what commands and incentives work best for keeping up on your dog’s training at home, learn and collaborate with other dog lovers, and take the chance to ask questions. Kansas City is home to a welcoming community of canine enthusiasts who are just as eager as you to share, discover, and discuss.

If your dog has a designated BFF (best furry friend, of course), plan a few follow-up play dates or get the whole group in on the fun with weekly dog park outings. There are plenty of dog friendly hikes in Kansas City ! Invite your canine classmates to graduation party and celebrate the beauty of friendship.

Exercise and socialization are great ways to promote health and wellness for both you and your pet.

We’ll save your dog a spot at our comprehensive group training class for local pets and the people who love them. Got questions? Contact the experts at Sit Now Stay for more tips and ideas on spoiling your dog.

The post Part of the Pack: The Importance of Socializing Your Dog Early appeared first on Sit Now Stay .

Kennels are Not Scary

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 11:55:00 GMT

How to Find a Great Place to Board Your Dog?

Locating the Right Kennel for You and Your Pet

Have you put off that dream vacation because you couldn’t possibly leave your canine buddy behind? Are you nervous about what you’d do if an emergency situation required you to be out of town, away from your beloved pup?

You may have ruled out Kansas City-area kennels in the past, thinking they’d be crowded or your pet would be too anxious away from home. But the right kennel can not only give you peace of mind that your dog is being cared for in your absence, it can provide a fun experience for your furry pal.

The key to finding a trusted kennel in Kansas City is to look for one well in advance of when you need it. That allows you to take your time touring the facility and asking questions about their standard of care. The operators of a respectable kennel will have no problem showing you around and explaining about their care philosophy.

Maybe you don’t know what you should even look for or ask about. Here are five important things to know about any kennel facility you choose for your pet:

1. What are the accommodations like?

Are they small and intimate or large with attached runs? There are a wide range of housing types, sometimes even within the same facility, to cater to the many different dog personalities out there.

2. What kind of exercise is provided?

Some kennels walk each dog several times a day, while others provide runs or outdoor areas for play. Some exercise areas are provided with other dogs, so know whether your pup is the socializing type or if solitary playtime would be preferable.

3. What are your health requirements?

Most facilities require up-to-date vaccinations, but some may accommodate pets who have a veterinarian-approved reason to forego some shots or titer levels that show immunity. (Note that in these special cases, your dog probably won’t be able to socialize with others.)

Some kennels also require proof of your use of flea control or will apply a dose when your dog checks in. It’s also good to know what happens if your dog develops an illness while in the kennel’s care. Is a staff vet available for health checks or will your dog be taken to your own vet?

4. How do you clean?

While inspecting the facility for a reasonable level of cleanliness, it’s also good to ask about the kennel’s system for disinfecting and removing waste. Safe and non-toxic products are a must but they must also be effective.

5. How do you ensure security?

Check to be sure that individual kennels are well maintained and don’t permit escape. As well, fencing for runs and perimeter fencing should be secure, with precautions that prevent dogs from leaving the kennel grounds.

Special Requirements for Your Dog

You may pay a little extra for special accommodations like giving your pet medications or supplements, providing grooming services or offering special care such as for a senior dog with partial incontinence.

The right kennel will also accommodate any special dietary needs your pet has. Not all facilities will prepare raw or fresh meals, so if you feed your pup this way, make sure the kennel you’re considering can handle it.

Make sure you know ahead of time what your additional requirements will cost so there are no surprises when you get your boarding bill.

Reserving the Ideal Kennel Experience

Once you find the right kennel, leaving for that special trip may be a little easier. But do keep in mind that you should make reservations well in advance, as the best kennels in Kansas City can fill up fast. While many kennels keep a spot or two open for owner emergencies, catching your flight to Hawaii doesn’t qualify. For best results, reserve your pup’s spot at least a month and as many as three months in advance.

If you’d like to schedule a tour or talk to our trained staff about your dog’s care — or to make a reservation — contact us .

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