How to Stop Your Dog from Chewing Everything When You're Gone

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

7 Lessons From Training 3,000+ Dogs

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

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 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.

The Truth About Pit Bulls: Myths, Facts, and Realities

Pit bulls are a breed often shrouded in controversy and misunderstanding. As a dog trainer with extensive experience, I want to shed some light on what it's really like to own a pit bull and whether this breed is the right fit for you. Let’s dive into the facts, debunk some myths, and provide a balanced perspective on these remarkable dogs.

The Pit Bull Myth

Firstly, it’s crucial to acknowledge that pit bulls, when bred properly, can be fantastic family dogs. They are often good with children, displaying a high tolerance and affectionate nature. However, the breed has faced significant challenges due to irresponsible breeding practices and misconceptions about their behavior.

The Game-Bred Gene: Understanding the Risk

One of the key concerns with pit bulls is the presence of a "game-bred" gene in some individuals. This gene can make a pit bull unwilling to give up, even when it would be prudent to do so. In extreme cases, this can lead to aggressive behavior that is difficult to manage. For instance, there have been reports of pit bulls continuing to bite even after their target is no longer a threat, driven by an over-aroused state.

The Role of Responsible Ownership

Many governments respond to these incidents by imposing breed-specific legislation, which often leads to bans on pit bulls. However, breed-specific legislation is not the most effective solution. Instead, holding owners accountable for their dogs' actions could prove more beneficial. Making owners responsible can encourage more responsible breeding and training practices.

The Challenge of Traceability

Purebred dogs typically come with detailed pedigrees, allowing owners and breeders to trace lineage and identify any problematic genes. Unfortunately, pit bulls often lack a robust breed standard, making it difficult to ensure the genetic quality of individual dogs. This is compounded by the prevalence of backyard breeders who prioritize profit over temperament and health.

Finding a Reputable Breeder

For prospective pit bull owners, finding a reputable breeder is paramount. Ethical breeders invest in the health and temperament of their dogs, ensuring they are well-socialized and free from genetic issues. While it can be challenging, it is possible to find breeders dedicated to producing high-quality pit bulls.

My Personal Experience

On a personal note, I’ve had the privilege of owning a well-bred pit bull. She was a wonderful companion for 16 years, demonstrating the potential for pit bulls to be loving, loyal family pets. She was not particularly fond of other dogs, but she was fantastic with my family, proving that with the right breeding and upbringing, pit bulls can thrive as household pets.

Is a Pit Bull Right for You?

Deciding if a pit bull is the right breed for you involves considering several factors:

1. Commitment to Training: Pit bulls require consistent and effective training from an early age.

2. Socialization: Early and ongoing socialization is crucial to help pit bulls develop good behavior around other dogs and people.

3. Exercise Needs: Pit bulls are energetic and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

4. Understanding Breed Traits: Be aware of the potential for the game-bred gene and take steps to manage arousal and prevent aggressive behavior.

Conclusion

Pit bulls can be exceptional pets when bred responsibly and raised with care. While there are inherent risks due to genetic factors and breeding practices, informed and committed owners can provide pit bulls with a loving and structured environment. By promoting responsible ownership and breeding, we can ensure that these dogs receive the care and respect they deserve. If you are considering a pit bull, make sure you are prepared for the responsibility and ready to invest in their training and well-being.

Most Importantly, do your due diligence and research breeders properly.

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If you’ve read this blog and still unsure as to whether the Pit Bull is the right breed for you and your family, or you would like to train with me, book a consultation by visiting my appointments page.

Top 5 Laziest Dog Breeds

Ever dreamt of a dog that loves lounging around as much as you do? Whether you're a busy professional or simply someone who enjoys a more relaxed lifestyle, having a low-energy dog can be a perfect match. Let's take a fun look at the top five laziest dog breeds that will happily join you in your laid-back approach to life.

1. The Basset Hound

The Basset Hound, often mistaken for a furry pillow, is notorious for its relaxed demeanor. This breed seems almost allergic to movement, seamlessly blending into its surroundings. You might even forget you have a Basset Hound until it starts howling like an opera singer, reminding you of its presence.

Pros:

• Low exercise needs

• Great for apartment living

• Affectionate and good with kids

Cons:

• Prone to obesity

• Can be stubborn during training

• Loud howling can be disruptive

2. The English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is the epitome of a couch potato. Unless it's absolutely necessary, this breed prefers to remain stationary. English Bulldogs get out of breath just from jumping off the couch and making a short dash to their food bowl.

Pros:

• Low energy, perfect for a relaxed lifestyle

• Gentle and good with children

• Minimal grooming needs

Cons:

• Prone to health issues (breathing problems, hip dysplasia)

• Can be stubborn and difficult to train

• Requires a controlled diet to prevent weight gain

3. The Great Dane

Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are surprisingly low-energy. After a brief burst of activity, like a game of tug-of-war, these gentle giants are ready to fall asleep again. Watching a Great Dane respond to commands in slow motion is quite a sight, and their calm nature makes them perfect for a laid-back household.

Pros:

• Gentle and friendly nature

• Good with children and other pets

• Protective without being aggressive

Cons:

• Requires a lot of space due to their size

• Short lifespan (average 7-10 years)

• Prone to health issues like bloat and hip dysplasia

4. The English Mastiff

The English Mastiff may be a guardian breed, but don't be fooled by its imposing size and bark. Weighing in at over 200 pounds, this dog prefers lounging to leaping. When there's nothing to bark at or protect, the English Mastiff enjoys nothing more than a good, long nap.

Pros:

• Calm and gentle demeanor

• Protective and loyal

• Minimal exercise needs

Cons:

• Requires a lot of space due to their size

• Drooling can be excessive

• Short lifespan (average 6-10 years)

5. The St. Bernard

Known for their heroic rescues in the Swiss Alps, St. Bernards are surprisingly lazy when off-duty. These massive dogs are more than happy to lounge around the house all day if given the chance. Motivating a St. Bernard to exercise can be a challenge, as they are content being giant, furry couch potatoes.

Pros:

• Gentle and patient with children

• Protective and loyal

• Low exercise needs for their size

Cons:

• Requires a lot of space due to their size

• Prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and heart problems

• Drooling can be excessive

Conclusion

If you're looking for a furry friend to match your laid-back lifestyle, any of these five breeds will fit the bill. Whether it's the charming Basset Hound, the laid-back English Bulldog, the gentle Great Dane, the docile English Mastiff, or the relaxed St. Bernard, each of these breeds brings their own unique charm to a lazy day at home. Just remember, even the laziest dogs need some exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Top 3 Family Dogs I Recommend as a Dog Trainer

When it comes to choosing the perfect family dog, there are a few breeds that stand out for their loving nature, adaptability, and family-friendly traits. As an experienced dog trainer, I've had the pleasure of working with numerous breeds, and these three consistently shine as my top choices for families.

1. The Golden Retriever

A picture of a Golden Retriever provided by Unsplash

Golden Retrievers are often considered the epitome of a family dog and America’s golden child. They are incredibly loving and have a gentle temperament, making them great with children. Here’s why they make such excellent family pets:

• Social Butterflies: Golden Retrievers are super social and generally friendly with everyone, including other pets.

• Easy to Train: Their eagerness to please and high intelligence make them one of the easiest breeds to train.

• Versatile: They adapt well to both indoor and outdoor living, making them a flexible addition to any family.

However, potential owners should be aware that Golden Retrievers shed a lot and can be quite destructive during their puppy and adolescent stages. Regular grooming and plenty of toys can help manage these challenges.

2. The Labrador Retriever

A picture of a black Labrador Retriever provided by Unsplash

Labrador Retrievers are another fantastic choice for families. They share many of the same positive traits as Golden Retrievers, but with a few key differences:

• Friendly and Loving: Labs are known for their affectionate nature and are great with kids.

• Energetic and Playful: They have a playful spirit and need plenty of exercises to keep them happy and healthy.

• Trainable: Like Golden Retrievers, Labradors are intelligent and eager to learn, which makes training them a breeze.

One thing to keep in mind with Labs is their higher hunting drive. This means you’ll need to be cautious if you have smaller pets or live in a neighborhood with lots of small animals. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to keep their natural instincts in check.

3. The German Shepherd

A picture of my late German Shepherd ‘Ninja’ taken by my son, Michael Windgassen

The German Shepherd is renowned worldwide as one of the most versatile and loyal dog breeds. Here’s why they make an excellent choice for families:

• Loving and Protective: German Shepherds are deeply loyal and affectionate, particularly with children. They also function as natural guardians.

• Highly Adaptable: They can adapt to most living situations and handle changes in routine well.

• Companionship: German Shepherds love to be with their family members and will follow you around, providing constant companionship.

While they are fantastic family dogs, German Shepherds require consistent training and socialization from an early age. They thrive on having a job to do, so engaging them in activities and training sessions is essential to keep them mentally and physically satisfied.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog for your family is an important decision. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds are three breeds that offer exceptional qualities, making them stand out as top family dogs. Each breed has its unique characteristics and needs, so it's crucial to consider your family’s lifestyle and preferences when making your choice. With the right care and training, any of these breeds can become a beloved member of your family, bringing joy, loyalty, and companionship for years to come.

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If you’ve read this blog and still unsure as to which family dog is the right breed for you and your family, book a breed consultation with me by visiting my appointments page.

Top 3 Dogs I Wouldn’t Want to Own as a Dog Trainer

Today, we’re diving into a topic that might ruffle some fur but needs addressing: the top three dogs I wouldn’t want to own as a dog trainer. Now, don’t get me wrong, every dog has its charm, but there are certain breeds that just don’t fit into my lifestyle or training preferences. So, let’s jump in!

1. The Chihuahua – Pocket-Sized Demons

Let’s start with the Chihuahua. These little guys might fit in your handbag, but don’t let their size fool you. Chihuahuas are like tiny tornadoes of teeth and attitude. Imagine trying to train a dog that thinks it’s ten feet tall and bulletproof.

Why wouldn’t I want one? Well, Chihuahuas seem to have a built-in defense mechanism that involves biting anything and everything. I’ve worked with rescue dogs with mental issues, but these little rascals can give even the most seasoned trainer a run for their money. Their feistiness is cute to some, but for me, it’s like trying to tame a miniature lion on caffeine.

2. The Pug – A Health Crisis on Four Legs

Next up, we have the Pug. Oh, Pugs, those adorable squished faces and bulging eyes can melt your heart, but let’s talk reality. Pugs in their current form are a genetic health crisis. They have so many health issues that owning one feels like having a lifetime subscription to the vet’s office.

Why wouldn’t I want one? The constant wheezing, the struggle to breathe, and the plethora of other health problems make Pugs a challenging pet. Until breeders start focusing on bringing back the longer-nosed, healthier Pug, it’s a no from me. It’s like adopting a bundle of medical bills with a tail.

3. The Caucasian Mountain Dog – A Bear in a Dog Suit

Lastly, the Caucasian Mountain Dog. This breed is majestic, powerful, and incredibly loyal. But here’s the kicker – they’re designed to guard livestock in rugged mountain terrains against predators like wolves and bears.

Why wouldn’t I want one? Simple – I don’t live in the mountains, and I don’t have livestock to protect. These dogs are enormous, hairy, and require a specific environment to thrive. Owning one in a suburban setting would be like having a bear in a dog suit lounging on your couch. It’s just not practical.

Final Thoughts

Every dog breed has its unique traits and quirks. As a dog trainer, I’ve encountered all kinds, and while these three breeds might not fit into my life, they could be perfect for someone else. Remember, choosing a dog is about finding the right match for your lifestyle and needs.

If you’re considering getting a dog, think about your living situation, your ability to handle potential health issues, and the dog’s natural instincts and behaviors. And if you ever need help with training or advice, you know where to find me!