Why You Shouldn’t Get a Dog Just for Your Dog
I recently chatted with a family member who had just welcomed their first dog and was already contemplating getting a second one “so the dog has a friend.” This is a common consideration among those with a single dog, and while I completely understand the sentiment, it’s not something I typically recommend. Many people observe […]
Ethical Breeders vs. Backyard Breeders and Pet Stores: The Importance of Your Puppy’s Origin
One of the first questions I pose to clients is about the source of their puppy and its age at adoption. These factors significantly influence a dog’s current behavior. Many people believe that training is the primary factor shaping a dog, but the reality is that a dog’s genetics, early development, and breeding practices equally […]
Small Dog Training…yes, they need training too.
Small dogs are undeniably adorable, but it’s important to remember that they have the same learning needs as their larger counterparts. At Wild Child Dog Training, we often encounter small pups who miss out on developing crucial coping skills because their owners tend to pick them up at the first sign of stress. While there’s […]
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Training Your Dog’s Behavior
A common sentiment among dog owners is, “I thought my dog would grow out of it.” It’s easy to see why. Puppies are often playful, impulsive, and bursting with energy. Behaviors such as jumping, pulling on the leash, barking, or mild reactivity, which typically emerge between five months and a year old, can seem like […]
Understanding Dog Behavior: Recognizing Warning Signs
One of the most frequent comments I encounter after a dog bites or snaps is, “It came out of nowhere!” or “He didn’t show any signs!” However, in nearly every instance, the dog did provide warnings that went unnoticed. Dogs seldom bite without first attempting to communicate their discomfort, anxiety, or overwhelm through more subtle […]
Play vs. Walk With Your Dog: If You Only Have Time for One, Which Should You Do?
I often get asked: “If I only have time to either play with my dog or take them for a walk, which one should I choose?” My honest answer: play. Why Walks Aren’t Always Enough Don’t get me wrong, walks are valuable. They expose your dog to new smells, sights, and sounds, which helps with […]
Play Hard, Rest Well: How Quality Play and Rest Shape Your Dog’s Nervous System, Attitude, and Behavior
Dogs thrive on a balance of stimulating play and restorative rest. When both are provided thoughtfully, you’ll see improvements in their nervous-system regulation, emotional state, and overall behavior. This blog explains why quality play and predictable rest matter, how they affect the nervous system, and practical strategies to create a balanced routine for a calmer, […]
When Things Go Wrong in Public — What I Learned Taking Wild to Swanfest
Last Sunday I made a mistake — a small one that turned into a valuable lesson. I took Wild, my youngest wolfdog, to Swansboro to socialize and see some favorite people, not realizing the town was holding Swanfest. We’d already planned to meet friends, so there was no turning back. What followed was stressful, humbling, […]
4th of July…a gentle reminder
The excitement of fireworks lighting up the night sky on the 4th of July brings joy to many, but for dogs, it can be a time of fear and anxiety. Preparing dogs for this holiday is essential to ensure their safety and comfort. With a little planning, the celebration can be enjoyable for everyone, including […]
Play…even around distractions
A dog’s wagging tail and excited bark can turn any ordinary day into an adventure. Playing with a dog is not just about fun; it strengthens the bond between the pet and its owner. However, getting a dog to focus and play, especially when distractions are nearby, can be a challenge. With the right approach, […]
