Dog Training Newbie

Devene Godau, CPDT-KA

Devene obtained a BA in Journalism from Michigan State University and spent several years working in marketing. However, when she adopted her first greyhound (who came with some behavior challenges), she began researching ways to modify her problem behavior and found help with a local dog trainer. She became a volunteer assistant to learn more, and eventually started teaching classes and conducting private lessons. She currently trains puppies full-time to become scent detection dogs. Devene lives in Michigan with her husband and kids, as well as 4 dogs, 2 cats and a tortoise.

How To Stop Unwanted Behavior Using Positive Reinforcement

Transforming your dog’s unwanted behavior through positive reinforcement may initially sound counterintuitive, but it is a powerful method. Not only is it possible to eliminate issues, but it’s also a fantastic way to shape preferable behaviors while deepening the bond with your pup. It is human nature to want to reprimand unwanted behavior with a […]

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Total Dog Recall Training: Teach Your Dog to Come When Called. Every Time.

Teaching your dog to come when called is one of the most essential skills to focus on with your pup. While it may seem like an easy skill to introduce, does your dog come every single time you call them? If not, you must start working on a total dog recall training plan! That starts

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Camping With Dogs: The Ultimate Guide For Newbies

Camping with dogs can be a lot of fun! But camping with pets also comes with its own set of hazards. To help ensure this grand adventure is a good one, let’s discuss ways we can prepare you and your dog for your trip before you ever set foot on the campsite. You may be

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How to Get Started Hiking With Your Dog

If you are looking for dog-friendly activities that you can share with your four-legged friend, hiking is a great adventure to explore. The sights, sounds, and smells of the great outdoors offer a lot of enrichment and physical activity for the whole family. With the proper preparation, a walk in the woods can relieve stress

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The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Dog Activities: The Gear You Need

Dogs and the great outdoors go hand and paw! And for good reason. Being in the wilderness offers many great opportunities for both dogs and their owners to explore, which is great for both ends of the leash. It is a great way to spend time with your dog while you both reap the many

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The Escape Artist: Preventing Your Dog’s Next Great Escape

If your dog is an escape artist, you’re likely at your wit’s end trying to figure out how to prevent your pup from running off again. Regardless of whether your dog jumps over the fence or digs beneath it, the result is the same: you’re left racing through the neighborhood, heart pounding, trying to catch

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Ask The Trainer: Favorite Training Tools and Toys For Aggressive Chewers

So you want to get supplies for your new dog or puppy – sounds easy enough. But if you have an aggressive chewer, you might find yourself in a tough spot, desperately seeking toys and chews that can stand up to your pup’s powerful jaw. But when you first walk into the pet store, you’ll

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What to Look for in an Online Dog Training Class

Since the COVID-19 pandemic inspired many dog trainers to take their course offerings online,  we have seen an explosion of online dog training classes. With so many options at your fingertips, choosing the right online training program can be overwhelming – there are online courses available to every dog owner, from new puppy owners to

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