The Mannered Mutt

05/28/2026

I have had a few clients reach out about their dog’s behavior going in to the veterinary clinic.
Before I touch on that I feel it’s very important to re-emphasize the importance of working with your dog from a very early age, ideally eight weeks old when you bring that puppy home is when you should be starting to teach your dog how to learn. In the dog training world this is known as engagement and motivation. It is vital to your dogs training to create motivation and clear communication, setting your dog up for reliable obedience anywhere, anytime.
If you have a dog, that is very reactive when you get to the veterinarian clinic, please reach out. This will look like several different things. Each dog is different. A dog might be trembling, have heavy panting he might drool or lip lick, and he might cling to you.
More fearful or painful responses will look like your dog, not moving, freezing in place, vocalizing, hiding, even submissive urination, and defensive aggression.
It is so important that your dog learns and understands that the vet clinic is a GOOD place.
If you were a dog exhibits any of these behaviors, please reach out to me so I can help

03/13/2026

This is spot on! I love temperament testing but spending time with the puppies parents should be something you do also!

We saw a great article from the AKC recently about puppy temperament testing, and it’s a topic people ask us about often.

Temperament tests done around 7–8 weeks can give a small snapshot of a puppy in that moment — but they don’t define the dog that puppy will become.

One thing we strongly agree with in the article is that genetics and early development matter, but temperament is also shaped heavily by environment and experiences as the puppy grows.

In our experience, the right litter really matters. The temperament of the parents and the genetics behind the litter lay the foundation.

With decades of dog training experience, we spend a lot of time observing our litters and helping match the right puppy with the right family. And we’ve seen firsthand how much the months after a puppy goes home — training, structure, and exposure — shape the adult dog.

The test at 7–8 weeks is just one small moment.

Nature gives the foundation.
Nurture builds the dog.

AKC article:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/puppy-temperament-tests/

05/16/2025

You’re looking at the queen id “search” and retrieving, no matter if it’s a bird or a glove, etc. you ask her to “search and her nose is to the ground! You ask her to “bring it” and she’ll drop it at your feet, whatever it is!! I should take advantage of that more!!!
Once I gave her a job she went from a super submissive dog to a dog with great confidence!!! She’ll stay where you tell her to stay, and won’t move until you ask her to, she’ll sit on command no matter what she might be doing; running, walking, distracted, etc! Lots of time and training hours spent on her, but it has been so worth it!!!

02/28/2025

Life with dogs, especially goldens. They just want to love you every second of every day!!!!

02/23/2025

As a behaviorist/dog trainer there is nothing more satisfying knowing your clients trust you and follow through with what they are learning. Huge shout out to Cammy and Kevin!!!! They have been working with their dogs daily on the training techniques that I have been showing them.
They have become great leaders for their little pack! They have gained their dogs trust and respect and it shows!!!!! Look at that little puppy doing what she’s been asked!
As a dog lover, trainer, behaviorist, and an owner of four dogs myself, there is nothing better than having a dog that listens well!!!
It can be done, even within a large pack of dogs!!! Remember, a dog is a product of its environment. If your dogs do not listen well, it’s because they do not see a leader in you, but a buddy. You can be both! I
Thank you Cammy Greig and Kevin for being great clients and leaders!!! You’ve done fabulous!!!!

02/23/2025

02/23/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15XBfCKj17/?mibextid=wwXIfr

01/15/2025

I had an unexpected cancelation for a two week board and train starting Friday. If you are interested please contact me.
call or text 208-507-0338

Skills Taught in Board & Train Program
I address all behaviors including:

House Training/Potty Training Puppy Biting/Mouthing
Jumping Chewing/Digging
Boundaries Barking/Whining Off the furniture (if desired) Crate Training (if desired)
Aggression Problems

Our Indoor/Outdoor Training teaches:

Come When Called Place Command
Pulling on the Leash Jumping on people/Furniture
Chewing/Digging Biting/Mouthing
Bolting/Wait at the Door Heeling (on and off leash)
Down/Stay Place Command Sit/Stay (close and at a distance)
House Training/Potty Training Nuisance Barking/Whining