Sharp Dogs Seattle

07/24/2026

Out of curiosity, I had one of my dogs tested by both Embark and Wisdom Panel. Here's how the results compared:

Bug’s DNA results

Wisdom Panel
25% Dachshund (miniature shorthaired)
25% Miniature Pinscher
12.5% Miniature Poodle
12.5% Chihuahua
25% Mix of companion dog breeds/terrier

Embark
37.6% Chihuahua
20.5% Poodle (small)
12.4% Supermutt
11.5% Miniature Pinscher
9.5% Pomeranian
8.5% Dachshund

Do you have thoughts on why the discrepancy?
Companies that do DNA testing are always improving their analysis of breeds.

What has your experience been? Do you think the DNA results for your dog were fairly accurate based on your dog's physical attributes?

I've included a picture of Bug. He was the only longer-haired puppy in the litter (got that from his mom). Two others in the litter have short-hair with min-pin rust/black coloring. One was blond. One was black.

We likely know that another litter was related as both pregnant dogs were found in the same barn.

Thoughts about dog DNA testing in general?

07/24/2026

I foster small dogs and I'm always curious to know their DNA make up.
Two of my foster puppies (littermates) were adopted and both families did DNA testing. Results were:

Rosie
Done by Wisdom Panel

43% Chihuahua
30% Pomeranian
5% Miniature Pinscher
5% Shih Tzu
3% Dachshund

Daisy
Done by Embark

30.4% Chihuahua
28.6% Pomeranian
14.5% Supermutt
8.4% Pit Bull Terrier
8% MinPin
6.2% Poodle (small)
3.9% German Shepherd

What do you think about the difference in results?

04/13/2026

Forgotten Dogs Rescue is a well-run organization! I've been offering my dog trainer/behavior consultant services to them and have been really impressed in how much thought and care they bring to each individual dog.

They're very supportive of their foster parents and, if needed, they give them the opportunity to help their foster dog, whether through teaching the dog basic skills or handling a foster dog with behavior challenges.

If you're interested in fostering for a rescue, I highly recommend that you consider Forgotten Dogs Rescue.

Want to help dogs but not sure where to start? 🐾

Join us for a virtual Fostering Info Session and learn how you can make a life-changing difference!

📅 Thursday, April 23, 2026
⏰ 5:30–6:30 PM

Whether you’re foster-curious or ready to jump in, this session will walk you through what to expect, answer your questions, and show you how fostering saves lives 💙

Open to applicants in the Seattle & Tri-Cities area.

Come learn, connect, and take the first step toward helping a dog in need! 🐶

Register at the link below 👇
https://www.tickettomato.com/event/10035/fostering-information-for-forgotten-dogs-rescue

11/18/2025

I wish there were some recourse for trainers who support this type of training. The US is behind on regulations for humane treatment of animals.

A recent U.S. class action (Hernandez v. Radio Systems Corporation) has resulted in compensation for consumers after claims that e-collars were misrepresented in sales and marketing as “safe” and “humane.” The complaint also outlined that such devices can cause both physical injury and psychological harm to dogs. Details are in the link below.

https://www.classaction.org/media/hernandez-v-radio-systems-corporation-complaint_1.pdf

At the UK Dog Behaviour & Training Charter, we uphold a strict no-shock collar and non-aversive policy. Training should build trust, promote wellbeing, and respect the dog’s experience, not rely on pain, fear, or coercion.

If you’re looking for humane, ethical training support that puts the emotional wellbeing of your pet first, you can find qualified professionals through our Charter member organisations and their members, who are all committed to kind, science-led methods.

Let’s keep bringing out the best in dogs through kindness, clarity, and care.

https://dogcharter.uk

10/12/2025

Pet 1st Aid class in Seattle

There is a pet 1st aid class being offered by Pet Emergency Education on Oct 18. I am merely hosting it at my location. I was thinking it'd be a great thing to add to one's credentials. Vet techs and certified professional dog trainers can earn CEUs.

Here's more info:

08/31/2025

Homeward Pet is an excellent rescue! If you know anyone who fits the bill for this job, pass the info onto them.

Homeward Pet Adoption Center is seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Director to lead our 35-year-old nonprofit into its next chapter of growth and impact. This is an exciting opportunity for a proven leader with a passion for animal welfare to guide a respected organization through a pivotal period of evolution.

The Executive Director will partner with the Board of Directors to provide strategic and operational leadership, strengthen fundraising and community partnerships, and ensure the continued excellence of our programs and services.

To apply, visit valtasgroup.com/hpac-ed.

06/18/2025

Oof. Social media doesn't interest me but I know I"m supposed to be active for my business.

Any of you overcome your aversion to SoMe and found a way to be motivated to do it?

Right now poking sticks into my eyes pales to the pressure and stress of making informative and clever posts.

Any and all insights welcome!
Save me

05/03/2025

04/20/2025

Sharp Dogs Seattle offers private dog training , dog classes and playgroups.

We're here for dog families who are looking to get some training for their dogs; whether it's for basic manners, specific skills, or behavioral challenges, we have your back!
Get in touch! Let us know how we can help you!

04/15/2025

We currently have a few offerings for puppies:
• Puppy playtimes for puppies 8-16 weeks old

• Leash Walking for Puppies 8-24 weeks old. It's never to early to start!

The space is disinfected before puppy events since puppies are still receiving their vaccines. Your puppy's well-being is important to us.

Check out my website to learn more about me and my services!
SharpDogsSeattle.com