Devoted2Dogs

10/21/2026

I headed upstate with my boys, Harry and Mr. Tiddles. We spent two days hiking. Harry and I managed to hike 8 miles. We tackled uphill, rocky terrain, different elevations, and finished with a walk along the Hudson River. I was concerned Harry would not be able to manage the whole hike at 11 years old but he killed it and didn't slow down for a moment. Mr. Tiddles did not want to go on our first walk due to the cold but managed to make our next hike with enthusiasm!
It was wonderful to see my two boys who are originally from the South rediscover their country roots. If you have the opportunity to get your city dog out of the city, do it!! They will come back to the city refreshed. .Tiddles

10/20/2026

Sam struggles with impulse control. Before taking him on a walk i do 5 minutes of Snuffle Mat time in order to reduce his excitement when getting ready for his walk. Sam is over 100lbs so it is important I have complete physical control of him and be able to get and keep his attention while on walks. If he is relaxed before his walk he is much more likely to pay attention to me.

10/19/2026

Benny is a reactive yorkie who reacts to dogs and bikes on leash but off leash socializes confidently and comfortably. How do you create that reaction on the leash? Mark and Treat, Desensitization, and use the Three R's: Repetition-practice the desired reaction over and over again. Routine-if your dog knows what to expect daily then their reaction will be more controlled. Restart-Go back a step in training when your dog goes over their threshold. Behavior ebbs and flows. Be patient with your training.

10/13/2026

Working on recall using the cue "Touch". I like using "Touch" to promote positive experiences with hands and to keep my dog close when off leash. Plus, most dogs enjoy doing it.

10/07/2026

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10/04/2026

To Joannie,
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to guide you and Liam through your training journey. I think we made good progress. You gave Liam a life of love, enrichment, safety, and freedom. I know Liam and Aidan are snuggling each other in heaven and looking down at you with love.

09/29/2026

Liam, you were a challenge but anything worth having takes hard work and time and Joannie committed to that!! We love and miss you!!

09/29/2026

Goodbye Liam. Thank you for making Wednesdays fun! We're sorry you had to leave so soon. You were a very special dog with a very special owner, Joannie. You were both lucky to have each other. 👎

09/28/2026

Working with Finn + Ollie off leash. We are practicing Recall, Eye contact, and Touch. Mr. Tiddles accompanies me to keep training sessions fun and light.
Building recall can be difficult. We can strengthen Recall by practicing in a non-distracting environment and slowly add Distance, Duration, and Distraction. If you change one variable be aware your dog might only be able to focus at that level temporarily. Adjust variables slowly and take a step back if your dog is struggling. Be patient and keep track of what your dog will react to. Set your dog up for success!

09/25/2026