Heel is an intermediate skill that is necessary to teach in order to walk nicely on a leash. It is one of the seven skills that dogs should know. I was pretty nervous about teaching Heel to Ezra. It seemed pretty hard, but it’s actually not so bad. I recommend teaching your dog how to…
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has various titles for different types of performance and dog training skills that you and your dog can test for. The AKC Intermediate Dog Trick Title is an easier title to train for because: If you have already achieved your Novice Dog Trick title, you can obtain your Intermediate title…
Recently, Ezra and I learned a cool new trick that I never imagined we would do. We learned how to walk together while Ezra weaves through my legs. It was really funny and I think we both enjoyed working together in new ways. It’s pretty tough to navigate with a big dog, but it is…
![59 Tips for First Time Dog Owners from 155 Dog Owners [2023]](https://www.bigdogtails.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/rectangle-768x1365.png)
Whether you are a first time dog owner or not, getting a dog is a wild ride. You may have done a lot of research on the right dog for you. You probably bought all the items you’re heard from friends and family you need for a new puppy. You’re also probably really excited for…
Food is really overwhelming when you first bring home your puppy. What’s the best type of food to feed the dog? How do you change your pup’s diet over time? Are you feeding them too much or too little? It’s really easy to assume that any food at the pet store that is marketed for…
I think everyone with a big dog can agree that door dashing is a problem. If your dog is rushing out the front door before you, it can be scary. Some homes don’t have a porch area and it can be a little nerve wracking to be pulled right down the steps. Not to mention,…
Isn’t it just the worst when you are walking down the street or at a friend’s house and a large dog jumps up at you out of nowhere? Maybe he’s being friendly. Still, it can be quite alarming and even unsafe. Small dogs might get away with jumping on strangers, but all dogs should learn…
There are seven basic commands to teach your dog that are necessary to having a well-behaved dog beyond responding to his name. These commands are sit, down, stay, heel, come, no, and off. All are important, and you need to teach your dog each one so that they will behave in everyday life. And while…
Any big dog needs to be taught to walk nicely on a leash. Some dog owners swear by a normal leash and collar to train by giving a treat every few steps until the dog learns to simply walk by your side. That has never worked for me, nor has it given me peace of…
Have you or someone you know ever brought home a dog simply because they were cute? My friends adopted an adorable puppy from the shelter. They didn’t know the breed and assumed it was a black lab. But what does it matter? He was cute, and it’s just a dog right? Little did they know,…