Hope Plays Dogs

10/23/2026

Building a game your dog loves is way more valuable than most people give it credit for. When we build play well and contrast it with teaching a dog to take a deep breath when we ask them to, we get a confident and stable dog who can read the room and match the vibe. They become more fulfilled physically, mentally, biologically - and in turn are better able to be a good citizen. We can also utilize games to combat fear and reactivity as well, and to teach nice loose leash skills and a clear, consistent behavior of coming when called.

If I’m describing issues or goals you have with your dog, check out my current classes at the link in my bio.

Classes run for 4 weeks, starting the first week of November. They are virtual, via Zoom. Audit spots are available (you’ll watch the replays and email me with questions) if you can’t make it live. DM me here if you have questions!

10/20/2026

If your tug or fetch games have any issues that need troubleshooting, I’m a master of PLAY and can help get you two on the same page so you can both experience fun instead of frustration. My class, “Ready” is available at the link in my bio. We will cover toy play, food play, and even a game with just your bare hands and your dog. All classes are hosted via Zoom. They run for 4 weeks, 90 minute sessions. A bit of lecture and a lot of discussion.

10/20/2026

It’s important to give them the cue to “catch” as well as a big explosion of cheerleading when they catch it. Then a cue to get the roller (I use “go”). If she misses, she comes back to me. We pause for a beat, and try again. If she misses two in a row I make the third rep easier.

Of course I wasn’t able to speak to her while I was narrating, but she knew the drill.

10/19/2026

What if - before Thanksgiving - you could have a deeper connection, a better understanding, and way less stress and frustration with your dog? My results speak for themselves!

If you’re in doubt, check out my reviews.

All classes are virtual, live via Zoom.

Here’s the November lineup

Leash and Recall: Cooperation is key! You’ll learn the foundations to build loose leash walking and for your dog to come when called, everytime.

Enough: Teach your dog to relax anywhere, anytime, with one word.

Intro to Play Based Training: Dive into the future of dog training - using play to overcome behavioral problems as well as build unbreakable connection with your dog

Ready (fka Play): Build drive or channel the intensity your dog already has. You’ll learn unbreakable games with food, toys, and even nothing but your hands. Use these games as dog training to solve issues such as fear and reactivity.

10/18/2026

We can use their chase drive to turn on their fight drive! If a dog plays fetch already, convincing them to play tug isn’t difficult if you have the right approach. Don’t beg them, don’t steal it. Stalk it. Pretend you’re going to grab it. When you do touch it, don’t pull. Once they start trying to keep it from you, THEN you can start to add some conflict by trying to pull on the toy a bit!

10/17/2026

Break it down.
They need to:
1) Believe you are a fun and fair playmate
2) Understand the rules and goals clearly

Break that down.
You need to:
1) Let go of expectations and PLAY
2) Understand the rules and goals clearly

So what does that mean?
Teach them to retrieve
Teach them how to catch effectively
Be clear in your body language, your tone, and your words

Breaking down skills into itty bitty digestible pieces is kind of my thing. Ask whatever’s on your mind and I’ll see if I can help uncomplicate your problem into approachable steps!

10/16/2026

Part 1. Part 2 is posted. All 4 of my Zoom group classes for November boil down to these concepts. If you want to learn more, my offerings are always available at the link in my bio. If you have any questions, ask in the comments and I’ll get you answered!

10/16/2026

Part 2. Part 1 is posted. All 4 of my Zoom group classes boil down to these concepts. If you want to learn more, my offerings are always available at the link in my bio. If you have any questions, ask!

10/15/2026

10/12/2026

I love dogs, and I want what is truly best for them. I believe we have to speak honestly about cases where a dog presents a serious risk of harm.

Animal welfare includes public safety, and responsible placement is not always possible. Decisions should be guided by a thorough risk assessment, complete behavioral disclosure, and compassion for adopters, the community, and the dog - not by protecting a label.

In some cases, behavioral euthanasia may be the most humane and responsible outcome. Acknowledging that possibility is an act of care, honesty, and a commitment to preventing further suffering.