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How to Stop Your Dog from Chewing Everything When You're Gone
Is your dog destroying furniture while you're away?
It's not revenge—it's boredom.
Dogs need a job, and if you don’t give them one, they’ll make their own.
Learn a simple 3-step plan to stop destructive chewing: mental work, physical exercise, and exhaustion.
A tired dog won’t wreck your home—they’ll sleep, recover, and wait for you. Train smarter, fix the cause, and enjoy a stress-free home.
Is your dog turning your furniture into a personal chew toy while you're away? If you've ever come home to shredded cushions, gnawed table legs, or destroyed shoes, you’re not alone.
Many dog owners face this frustrating issue. But before you assume your dog is acting out of spite, let’s get one thing clear: It’s not payback. It’s boredom.
Dogs, especially high-energy working breeds, need a job. If you don’t give them one, they’ll create their own—usually in a way you won’t like.
So, how do you stop the destruction? By understanding their needs and providing the right outlets for their energy.
Understanding Why Dogs Chew
Dogs chew for a variety of reasons, but the most common ones include:
Boredom: When left alone without mental or physical stimulation, dogs look for something to do. Chewing is an easy, self-rewarding activity.
Anxiety or Stress: Some dogs chew to cope with separation anxiety. Destruction often happens soon after you leave.
Lack of Exercise: A dog with too much pent-up energy will find a way to release it, and that often means tearing apart your belongings.
Teething (for Puppies): Young dogs naturally chew to relieve teething pain and explore the world.
If your dog is chewing everything in sight, it’s a sign they aren’t getting enough stimulation. The solution? Drain their energy before you leave.
The 3-Step Plan to Prevent Destructive Chewing
1. Mental Work – Make Them Think
Dogs aren’t just physical creatures—they have active minds that need stimulation. The more they think, the more energy they burn. Before you leave, engage their brain with:
Obedience Training: Run through basic commands like sit, down, stay, and recall. Keep sessions short but focused.
Problem-Solving Tasks: Use puzzle toys or hide treats around the house for them to find.
Marker Training: Reward behaviors with a quick game or praise, reinforcing engagement and focus.
When a dog has to work through a problem or obey a command, they burn mental energy—just like you would after a long meeting or an intense study session.
2. Physical Work – Tug-of-War Over Treats
Once their brain is engaged, it’s time to tire out their body. Many working breeds have a strong drive for physical engagement. Instead of relying solely on treats, use an active game like tug-of-war as a reward.
Why Tug Works: It builds engagement, satisfies their natural prey drive, and gives them a controlled way to expend energy.
Short and Effective: A few rounds of intense tug combined with training can drain more energy than a long, slow walk.
Balance Matters: Combine structured tug games with obedience work to reinforce good behavior.
3. Exhaustion – Brain + Body = KO’d Dog
Once you’ve worked their brain and body, your dog should be tired. A drained dog is a relaxed dog. They’ll be in recovery mode, ready to sleep rather than destroy.
Compare it to Humans: Imagine leaving a mentally draining meeting and immediately hitting the gym. By the end, all you want is to rest. Dogs experience the same thing when properly exercised.
Chew-Proofing Tip: Provide appropriate chew toys, so if they do feel the need to chew, they pick the right things.
When you leave after this structured routine, your dog won’t be searching for things to destroy. They’ll be recovering, waiting for you to return.
What Not to Do
Many dog owners try quick fixes that don’t address the root cause. Here’s what doesn’t work:
🚫 Punishing After the Fact: Your dog won’t understand why they’re being scolded hours later. Punishment won’t stop future chewing.
🚫 Relying Solely on Chew Toys: While chew toys are great, they aren’t a solution by themselves. If your dog is still full of energy, a toy won’t stop them from finding other things to chew.
🚫 Crating Without Exercise: A crate can help prevent destruction, but if a dog is crated without being tired first, they’ll just become frustrated and anxious.
Watch This Method in Action!
For a step-by-step demonstration of how to stop your dog from chewing everything while you’re gone, watch my latest YouTube video below.
Final Thoughts
Your dog isn’t trying to make your life difficult. They’re just following their instincts. If they have extra energy and no outlet, they’ll use whatever is available—whether that’s a chew toy or your favorite couch.
By combining mental stimulation, physical work, and exhaustion, you’ll set your dog up for success. Train smarter, not harder. Address the root cause, and you’ll stop destructive chewing before it even starts.
- Marc Windgassen
No Drive… No Joy
#DogTraining #StopChewing #WorkingDogs #BalancedTraining
Your Dog's Health Starts with Proper Nutrition
What you feed your dog shapes their health. Cheap kibble can cause weak joints, poor muscle growth, and premature aging. Some brands even face lawsuits over harmful ingredients.
If raw feeding is not an option, choose the best kibble you can. Research ingredients and avoid fillers. Your dog depends on you.
What you feed your dog today will shape their health for years to come. A poor diet can lead to serious problems, including:
Weak joints
Stunted muscle development
Improper physical growth
Slower mental development
What’s Wrong with Cheap Kibble?
Many low-quality kibble brands are packed with ingredients that do more harm than good:
Indigestible fillers that provide no real nutrition
Unbalanced ingredient ratios that mess with your dog’s system
Deficiencies in key nutrients like protein and vitamins
Preservatives and additives that speed up aging
Some of the biggest dog food brands are facing multiple class-action lawsuits because their products have been linked to premature aging, cancer, and even early death.
That’s not my opinion… it’s in the legal records. But I won’t name names because these companies have a habit of going after trainers who speak up.
Why Some Vets Won’t Talk About It
Not all vets are the same. Some genuinely care about your dog’s health. Others push cheap food brands because it brings in extra revenue. If your vet gets defensive when you ask about nutrition, consider that a red flag 🚩.
What Should You Feed Instead?
I’m not here to shame anyone for feeding kibble. Raw feeding isn’t for everyone, and that’s fine. But there are high-quality kibble brands out there... ones with real meat, balanced nutrition, and no garbage fillers. If raw isn’t an option, invest in the best kibble you can afford.
And don’t take my word for it. Research the food you’re giving your dog. Check ingredients. Look up lawsuits. See what independent nutritionists recommend.
I’m not a vet, so if you need expert advice, consult a canine nutritionist or a vet with a specialization in animal nutrition.
Your dog relies on you to make the right choices. What you feed them today will impact their health for life.
7 Lessons From Training 3,000+ Dogs
Dog training isn’t just about rewards. It’s about structure, consistency, and leadership. Clear direction, proper timing, and confidence matter. Repetition builds reliability, and emotions don’t train dogs… clarity does. Leadership is earned, not assumed.
Most people think dog training is all about rewards.
It’s not.
Treats help, but they don’t build lasting obedience.
Structure, consistency, and leadership do.
After working with over 3,000 dogs, I’ve learned what really makes a difference.
Here are seven key lessons every dog owner should know:
1. A Dog Follows Clear Direction
If you don’t provide it, they’ll make their own rules. Dogs thrive on structure-without it, chaos takes over. Your job is to guide, not just react.
2. Timing is Everything
Reinforce good behavior the moment it happens. A second too late, and the dog won’t connect the action to the reward (or correction).
Precision makes training faster and more effective.
3. Simple Beats Complicated
Fancy tricks mean nothing if your dog won’t come when called. Master the basics first-sit, down, recall, leash walking. A reliable dog is far more valuable than a showy one.
4. Confidence Transfers
A nervous handler creates a nervous dog. If you hesitate, they will too. If you panic, they will escalate. Calm, confident leadership makes all the difference.
5. Repetition Builds Reliability
A dog doesn’t “know” a command after five tries. True training is about consistent practice over time. If you want a solid recall or a reliable sit-stay, put in the reps.
6. Human Emotions Don’t Train Dogs
Guilt, frustration, or sympathy won’t teach a dog what’s right or wrong. Clear, consistent feedback does. Keep emotions out of the equation and focus on communication.
7. Leadership is Earned
Dogs don’t follow requests-they follow leaders. Leadership isn’t about dominance. It’s about consistency, clarity, and setting boundaries. If you don’t lead, your dog will fill the gap.
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with training, chances are it’s not about the dog-it’s about how you’re leading. Training isn’t just about commands; it’s about relationship, trust, and consistency.
Which of these lessons do you need to focus on most? Comment down below ⬇️
-Marc Windgassen
No Drive… No Joy
Stop Your Dog from Jumping – Fast and Easy Fixes
✔️ Stop your dog from jumping with these quick, effective methods.
✔️ Reward sitting, ignore bad behavior, and use leash corrections.
✔️ Reinforce calm actions—dogs repeat what gets rewarded.
✔️ Stay consistent, and your dog will learn fast!
Your dog keeps jumping on you, guests, or strangers? Annoying, right? The good news is, you can stop this fast without yelling, shoving, or getting frustrated.
Here’s how to fix it step by step:
1. Reward Sitting Instead of Jumping
Dogs jump to get attention. But what if they learned sitting gets them what they want instead?
✔️ When your dog sits, reward them with food, a toy, or praise.
✔️ Ignore jumping. Zero attention, no eye contact, no petting.
✔️ Be consistent. Reward sitting every single time.
Your dog will figure it out:
Sitting = attention.
Jumping = nothing.
2. Ignore & Step Forward
✔️ If your dog jumps, don’t react. No words, no eye contact.
✔️ Take a small step forward into them.
✔️ This throws them off balance. And dogs hate losing balance.
✔️ Without a reward, they’ll drop the habit fast.
3. Use a Leash Correction
If your dog is on a leash and jumps, use a quick leash correction:
✔️ A gentle sideways tug. Just enough to interrupt the behavior.
✔️ This isn’t about punishing the dog. It’s about breaking the pattern.
✔️ Follow up by rewarding calm behavior.
4. Step on the Leash
✔️ If your dog jumps, they shouldn’t be able to launch up freely.
✔️ Keep the leash short enough so that when they try to jump, they feel resistance.
✔️ They’ll self-correct because jumping stops being fun.
5. Catch & Reward Good Behavior
✔️ Notice your dog sitting calmly without being told? Reward them!
Dogs repeat what works for them. Make sitting their best option.
Final Thoughts: Stay Consistent
✔️ Reward what you want ✅
✔️ Ignore what you don’t ❌
Dogs are simple. If jumping stops getting them what they want, they’ll quit. If sitting gets them all the rewards? That’s what they’ll choose.
Stick with it. You’ll see results fast.
Need More Help? Want expert guidance? Book a session and get your dog trained right.
Marc Windgassen
No Drive... No Joy
Dog Parks Are a Disaster for Your Dog
Dog parks are unpredictable. Untrained dogs and clueless owners create chaos.
One bad experience can undo months of training. Fights and stress can cause lasting issues.
Health risks are real. Parasites, bacteria, and poor maintenance lead to illness.
Better alternative: Choose controlled environments for safe, quality socialization.
Dog parks seem like a great idea.
An open space for dogs to run, play, and socialize. But the reality? They do more harm than good. Here’s why:
1. No Control = High Risk
Dog parks are a free-for-all. You can’t predict who or what will be there.
Untrained dogs + clueless owners = chaos.
Aggressive dogs? You won’t know until it’s too late.
Bad habits spread fast—especially when there’s no control.
What to do instead: Don’t assume a dog park is a safe space. Choose semi-controlled environments where you can manage interactions.
2. One Bad Experience Can Undo Months of Training
All it takes is one bad encounter to change your dog’s behavior for the worse.
A fight at the park can turn your dog reactive for life.
If you’ve put in time training a rescue dog, one negative experience can erase months of progress.
Dogs don’t need more socialization; they need quality socialization.
What to do instead:
Be picky about socialization. Set up controlled playdates with dogs and owners you trust.
Socialization is not just about your dog meeting other dogs.
It’s about exposing your dog to:
New environments
New sights
New scents
New sounds
New people
3. Health & Safety Risks Are Real
Dog parks aren’t just playgrounds—they’re breeding grounds for illness and injury.
Parasites, bacteria, and viruses spread easily.
Many parks are poorly maintained, increasing the risk of infection.
Dogs can pick up bad behaviors—like excessive rough play or guarding.
Why avoiding dog parks works:
You skip expensive vet bills.
Your dog stays healthy.
You prevent unnecessary training setbacks.
The Bottom Line
Dog parks create more problems than they solve. If you want a well-balanced, social dog, focus on controlled environments where you can guide their interactions.
Stay smart. Train with intention.
Follow me for real, effective dog training advice.
— Marc Windgassen
No Drive... No Joy.
Why Won’t Your Dog Stop Barking? Here’s What You Need to Know
Dogs bark. It’s natural. But when it turns into an endless noise-fest, there’s a reason behind it.
Common causes? Boredom, anxiety, attention-seeking, fear, and excitement. Fixing the barking means addressing the root cause… not just silencing the noise.
✅ Bored? Increase mental and physical exercise.
✅ Anxious? Work on desensitization.
✅ Seeking attention? Ignore the barking, reward the quiet.
✅ Scared? Build confidence with positive reinforcement.
✅ Overexcited? Teach impulse control.
Barking is communication. Understand the message, fix the cause, and the noise stops.
No Drive... No Joy.
Dogs bark. It’s normal. But when it becomes non-stop, it’s a problem.
So why won’t your dog stop? Let’s break it down.
5 Common Reasons for Excessive Barking
1️⃣ Boredom
Dogs need stimulation. A dog with nothing to do will find ways to entertain itself—including barking. If your dog is barking for no apparent reason, boredom is a likely cause.
2️⃣ Anxiety (General or Separation Anxiety)
Stress leads to barking. Whether it’s general anxiety or separation anxiety, an anxious dog will bark to release pent-up tension. If your dog starts barking the moment you leave, separation anxiety could be the issue.
3️⃣ Attention-Seeking Behavior
Dogs are smart. If barking gets them attention, they’ll keep doing it. If you react every time your dog barks, they learn that barking works.
4️⃣ Fear
Loud noises, unfamiliar people, or sudden movements can scare dogs. Their instinct? Barking.
5️⃣ Excitement
Some dogs can’t contain their energy. They see another dog, hear their leash jingle, or get hyped about mealtime—cue the barking.
The Solution? Fix the Cause, Not the Noise
Trying to stop barking without addressing the root cause is pointless. Instead, tackle the real issue:
✅ Boredom Barking? → Increase mental and physical stimulation. Play engagement games, introduce puzzle toys, and ensure regular exercise.
✅ Separation Anxiety? → Work on desensitization. Leave for short periods and gradually extend the time. Keep departures and arrivals low-key.
And most importantly…
CRATE TRAIN YOUR DOG!
✅ Attention-Seeking Barking? → Ignore it. Reward quiet behavior instead.
✅ Fear-Based Barking? → Identify the trigger and help your dog build confidence around it with positive reinforcement.
✅ Excitement Barking? → Teach impulse control. Reward calm behavior, not overexcitement.
Final Thoughts
Barking is a symptom, not the problem. Fix the cause, and the barking stops. Focus on engagement, confidence-building, and consistency. Your dog isn’t just barking to annoy you… they’re communicating. It’s your job to listen and address the real issue.
– Marc Windgassen
No Drive... No Joy.
Still can’t fix your dog’s excessive barking? Book a consultation with me here ⬅️
Why is Training Your Dog Important?
Key Reasons Why You Should Train Your Dog
Training your dog is more than just teaching commands—it's about building a safer, happier life for both of you.
Proper training enhances safety, socializes your dog, promotes good behavior, strengthens your bond, and boosts your dog's confidence.
Key Reasons Explained:
Enhances Safety for Your Dog and Others
Training your dog is crucial for ensuring their safety and the safety of those around them.Basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" can prevent your dog from running into dangerous situations, such as traffic or confrontations with other animals.
A well-trained dog is less likely to engage in behaviors that could lead to accidents or injuries, making them safer in various environments.
It Promotes Good Behavior and Manners
Training helps instill good behavior in your dog, making them a better companion in your home and community.By teaching your dog what behaviors are acceptable, you prevent issues like excessive barking, jumping on guests, or destructive chewing.
This not only makes your life easier but also creates a more pleasant environment for everyone your dog interacts with.
Strengthens the Bond Between You and Your Dog
The process of training is an excellent way to build a strong, positive relationship with your dog.Through training, you communicate your expectations clearly, and your dog learns to trust and respect you.
Positive reinforcement techniques further enhance this bond, creating a relationship based on mutual understanding and affection.
Improves Socialization Skills
Proper training is essential for helping your dog develop good social skills.A well-socialized dog is more confident and less anxious in new situations, whether encountering other dogs, meeting strangers, or visiting unfamiliar places.
This reduces the likelihood of aggressive or fearful behavior, making your dog a more well-rounded and adaptable companion.
Boosts Mental Stimulation and Reduces Boredom
Training provides your dog with mental challenges that keep their mind sharp and engaged.Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise, and training offers an excellent way to fulfill this need.
A well-stimulated dog is less likely to develop destructive behaviors caused by boredom, such as chewing or digging.
Facilitates Easier Handling and Care
Training your dog to accept routine handling, such as grooming, nail trimming, and vet visits, makes these experiences less stressful for both you and your dog.A dog that is accustomed to being touched and handled is easier to care for and more cooperative during necessary procedures, reducing the risk of injury or stress.
Enhances Your Dog's Confidence and Reduces Anxiety
Consistent training helps your dog feel more secure and confident in their environment.Knowing what is expected of them allows dogs to navigate the world with less fear and anxiety.
This is especially important for rescue dogs or those with a history of trauma, as it helps them build trust and feel safe.
Prevents the Development of Problematic Behaviors
Early and consistent training can prevent the development of unwanted behaviors that could lead to significant issues later on.Addressing behaviors like aggression, excessive barking, or resource guarding early on makes it easier to correct them before they become ingrained habits.
By understanding and prioritizing dog training, you not only improve your dog's quality of life but also create a harmonious living environment for the both of you or your household.
Proper training is the foundation of a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted dog.
Comment your thoughts down below as I’m curious to know how crate training has or hasn’t worked for you. What has your experience been?
For more in-depth tips and personalized guidance, subscribe to my newsletter or feel free to reach out for a consultation.
Happy training!
How to Crate Train Your Dog: Quick and In-Depth Guide
Crate training your dog is a game-changer! Learn step-by-step how to make the crate a positive, safe space your dog will love, ensuring peace of mind for you.
Crate training your dog is a valuable skill that can make a world of difference in your dog's behavior and your peace of mind.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to successfully crate train your dog, ensuring they feel comfortable, safe, and happy in their crate.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Guide
Before diving into the detailed instructions, I recommend watching the video below, which visually demonstrates each step of the crate training process. This video will give you a clear idea of what to expect and how to execute each step effectively.
The Basics of Crate Training
Crate training starts with building trust and making the crate a positive and enjoyable space for your dog. Here’s a quick rundown of the initial steps:
Introducing the Crate: Begin by placing some food at the entrance of the crate. Your dog will naturally approach, sniff, and eat the food while keeping all four feet outside the crate.
Gradually, you can toss food further inside the crate, encouraging your dog to step in with their front paws.
Building Confidence: Over time, increase the distance of the food placement inside the crate.
At this stage, it’s crucial not to close the gate. The dog must learn that the crate is a safe place, and they can exit whenever they choose.
This freedom builds trust.
Extending Crate Time: Once your dog is comfortable going in and out, you can start closing the gate briefly while they are inside eating.
Start with just a few seconds, and gradually extend the time. Continue to reinforce the experience positively by feeding them while the gate is closed.
Teaching Commands: Every time your dog enters the crate, say the word “crate.” Over time, this will become a command that your dog will respond to automatically.
Additionally, teach your dog to sit and wait for your command before exiting the crate.
This ensures your dog does not rush out, which could be dangerous in certain situations, such as at the vet's office or when in the back of a pickup truck.
Advanced Crate Training Techniques
Once your dog is comfortable with the basics, you can advance to the next level of crate training:
Increase Duration:
Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the crate with the gate closed.
Start with short periods and extend them as your dog becomes more comfortable.
Decrease Feeding Frequency:
Initially, you’ll be feeding your dog frequently while they’re in the crate.
As they become more accustomed to it, start extending the intervals between feedings.
Eventually, your dog should feel relaxed in the crate even without the immediate presence of food.
Random Rewards:
Occasionally, place food in the crate when your dog isn’t watching.
This makes the crate a “magic box” where food randomly appears, further encouraging your dog to enter the crate willingly and spend time there.
The Benefits of Crate Training
Crate training offers numerous benefits for both you and your dog. It provides a safe space for your dog, helps with house training, and can make travel or visits to the vet much easier.
A well-crate-trained dog will see the crate as a positive place and may even seek it out on their own to rest or relax.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your dog feels secure and happy in their crate.
Remember, patience and consistency are key.
Over time, your dog will come to see the crate as their own personal haven.
Conclusion
Crate training is a gradual process that requires patience, but the results are well worth the effort.
With the right approach, your dog will not only accept the crate but also come to love it as a safe and comfortable space.
Whether you're starting with a puppy or an adult dog, these techniques can help you achieve a successful crate training experience.
Comment your thoughts down below as I’m curious to know how crate training has or hasn’t worked for you. What has your experience been?
For more in-depth tips and personalized guidance, subscribe to my newsletter or feel free to reach out for a consultation.
Happy training!
Why Online Dog Training is the Perfect Choice for Montana
The Convenience and Flexibility of Online Dog Training
In Montana, where the population density is just 7 people per square mile, many dog owners live far from city centers.
Online dog training eliminates the need for travel, allowing you to train your dog from the comfort of your home, whether you're in Billings or on a remote ranch.
Montana, with its vast landscapes and rural lifestyle, offers a unique environment for dog owners. However, the state's low population density and remote locations can make accessing professional dog training services a challenge.
This is where online dog training, also known as virtual dog training, becomes the ideal solution for Montana's dog owners.
The Convenience and Flexibility of Online Dog Training
In Montana, where the population density is just 7 people per square mile, many dog owners live far from city centers.
Online dog training eliminates the need for travel, allowing you to train your dog from the comfort of your home, whether you're in Billings or on a remote ranch.
How Does Online Dog Training Work?
In this video, I explain how virtual dog training works.
Key Benefits:
Accessibility: Train from anywhere, no travel required.
Real-Time Guidance: Get live feedback during sessions via Zoom, just like in-person training.
Recorded Sessions: Access recordings of your training sessions to reinforce learning
PDF Summaries: A summary of your most recent online session is emailed to you after each session..
High Dog Ownership, Limited Local Options
Montana has one of the highest rates of dog ownership in the U.S., with 52% of households owning at least one dog.
Despite this, finding local dog trainers can be difficult due to the state's vast size and rural nature.
Online training bridges this gap by offering personalized, one-on-one sessions that I tailor to you and your dog’s specific needs.
Why Choose Online Training?
Tailored Sessions: Focused on your dog's unique behavior and training needs.
Effective: Real-time feedback helps in transforming your dog's behavior quickly and efficiently.
Owner Training: A vital aspect of dog training that is often overlooked is that dog owners also have to be trained and build a working relationship with their dog.
Suitable for All Ages and Breeds
Online training is suitable for dogs of all ages.
You can start as early as 8 weeks old, which is especially important during the critical imprinting phase of your puppy’s development.
For older dogs, the flexible nature of online sessions allows for gradual and effective habit transformation.
Training at Any Age:
Start Early: Begin as early as 8 weeks, even before vaccinations are complete.
Older Dogs Welcome: Training is effective at any age, though it may take longer to replace old habits.
The Rural Advantage of Virtual Training
For rural Montanans, online dog training offers unmatched convenience.
With nearly half the population living in rural areas, the ability to schedule sessions at convenient times and eliminate travel is a significant advantage.
Why It Works for Rural Areas:
No Travel Needed: Train from your home, no matter how remote.
Consistent Progress: Weekly consultations keep your dog’s training on track.
Owner-Led Success: Without the physical presence of a trainer, you develop a stronger bond and sense of accomplishment with your dog.
See Behind the Scenes Footage of Online Dog Training
Reflecting on My Radio Interview with Adrian Hackshaw on Freedom 106.5FM
Join Marc Windgassen, seasoned dog trainer and Co-Founder of Dogpoint LLC, as he sits down with Adrian Hackshaw on Freedom 106.5FM’s “Betterment with Bass.” Discover why "a dog needs a lot of care" and the importance of "engagement games" like tug of war and fetch. Learn practical training tips, such as introducing a leash to an older dog, and get insights on choosing the right breed for your lifestyle. Marc also shares personal anecdotes, including his experience with Pit Bulls and the significance of proper socialization. This must-read interview is packed with expert advice for every dog owner. Visit Dogpoint LLC to learn more!
Marc Windgassen (left) and Adrian Hackshaw (right)
Last Wednesday, I had the privilege of being interviewed on Freedom 106.5FM, a prominent radio station here in Trinidad and Tobago. The interview was conducted by the vibrant Adrian Hackshaw, known on Instagram as @basstnt3000, during his popular segment "Betterments with Bass." It was a remarkable experience, allowing me to share my insights on dog training, ownership, and handling various breeds, including Malinois, Mastiffs, Pit Bulls, and Rottweilers.
The Importance of Proper Dog Care
We kicked off the discussion with a crucial point that Adrian highlighted: dogs need more than just basic care. As he aptly put it, “A dog needs a lot of care. Even though I have a dog at home and sometimes when you're leaving home, you just look so sad.” This sentiment set the tone for our conversation about the depth of commitment required in dog ownership.
Engaging with Your Dog
One of the key topics we dove into was the concept of engagement. Dogs thrive on mental stimulation and active engagement with their owners. I explained, “Engagement games could be a little tug of war, a game of fetch, or giving your puppy food when it makes eye contact with you.” These activities not only keep dogs mentally active but also strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner.
Adrian was keen to learn more about specific training techniques. He asked, “When you say training, I mean, training them in terms of, you know, a lot of people like to have their dogs in the home.” I responded, “Everything. So from potty training, teaching dogs engagement so that they want to actually work for their owner and get mental stimulation out of that. And you get the cooperation that way.”
Training for Different Needs
Our discussion then shifted to the different needs of dogs based on their roles. For instance, basic obedience is essential for all dogs, but those kept for protection require more advanced training. As I mentioned, “If it is that you have a dog to also protect the home, then you have to get a lot more control into your dog so that you can control a large dog, even in public.”
Adrian inquired about the importance of getting dogs from a young age. “Is it important to get the dogs from a puppy, instead of an adult dog?” he asked. I explained, “Yes, it is easier to deal with a dog from puppy. But before you even get there, you have to consider what breed do I want? What breed suits my lifestyle?”
Choosing the Right Breed
One crucial aspect of dog ownership is choosing the right breed to match your lifestyle. “If you're somebody that is working 10 hours a day, you should probably not get a Belgian Malinois because you would not have time for a dog like this,” I advised. It's vital to select a breed that aligns with your daily routine and energy levels to ensure both you and your dog can lead a happy, balanced life.
Adrian added, “What about space for a dog? Bigger dogs need space. It’s not good to have them too choked up, like some people might have a dog in a kennel right through.” I agreed, “A dog that you want for protection can do absolutely nothing for you in a kennel. If your plan is to put the dog in a kennel, you can get a small breed that makes noise and alerts you that there is somebody.”
Socialization and Family Dynamics
Socialization is another critical factor in dog training. A well-socialized dog is less likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors. I emphasized, “It is your responsibility to train the dog for those things. It is not the groomer's responsibility.” Proper socialization from a young age helps dogs adapt to various environments and people, reducing the risk of problematic behaviors.
Adrian asked about introducing larger dogs into a household with smaller dogs. “How does that work?” he queried. I responded, “If the introductions are done correctly, generally it is not a huge issue. Dogs don't really care too much about size the way we do. It's more about attitude than anything else.”
Addressing Common Concerns
We also tackled common concerns, such as the fear surrounding certain breeds like Pit Bulls. “Pit Bulls can be really good dogs, they can be really good family dogs. I personally had one, just to prove it, and it was my son's age,” I shared. Proper training and understanding of a dog's genetic background play a significant role in shaping their behavior.
Adrian brought up an interesting point, “Now people are usually scared of the Pit Bulls. You know, dangerous dogs. But where do you stand with Pit Bulls?” I explained, “It depends on the genetics. Pit Bulls can be really good dogs but there's also a gene that some carry, which produces an unwillingness to give up. And so once they bite, they don't stop.”
Practical Training Tips
Adrian and I also discussed practical training tips for everyday scenarios. For instance, introducing a leash to an older dog can be challenging. I suggested, “You can practice that in the yard. You put the leash on him and you call him to you with some food.” Gradual introduction and positive reinforcement can make the process smoother for both the dog and the owner.
Dogpoint LLC and Freedom 106.5FM
Throughout the interview, I had the opportunity to promote my dog training services. At Dogpoint LLC, we offer various training options, including in-person sessions, virtual training, and group classes. Our website, dogpoint.pet, provides access to over 300 educational videos, blogs, and podcasts, helping dog owners worldwide.
Adrian Hackshaw's thoughtful questions and warm hospitality made the interview a delightful experience. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to him for hosting me on "Betterments with Bass." I also want to express my gratitude to Freedom 106.5FM and their holding company, Guardian Media Limited, for providing this platform to share valuable insights on dog training and ownership.
For anyone interested in professional dog training services, feel free to visit my appointments page or contact me directly. Let's work together to ensure your furry friends receive the care, training, and love they deserve.