Greater Boston Dog Trainers

Preventing Pulling Before It Starts

a couple of days ago
/ Boston Dog Trainer
/ By Alex Boston OLK9

Preventing Pulling Before It Starts Most leash problems don’t start because a puppy is stubborn. They start because pulling works. If your puppy pulls forward and you keep walking, they learn something powerful: Tension = progress. That single pattern, repeated daily, builds the pulling habit. The good news? If you shape movement thoughtfully from the […]

Emotional Changes in Aging Dogs

Emotional Changes in Aging Dogs Aging doesn’t only change your dog’s body. It changes how they experience the world. As dogs enter their senior years, emotional shifts often appear quietly. You may notice subtle differences before anything dramatic happens. Maybe your once-independent dog follows you more closely.Maybe they startle more easily.Maybe they seem confused at […]

Marker Words vs Clicker Training

Marker Words vs Clicker Training If you’ve started using markers in training, you’ve likely heard this question: “Should I use a clicker or just a marker word?” Both tools serve the same purpose — to precisely mark the moment your dog performs the correct behavior. But they are not identical, and each has strengths and […]

Why Neutral Territory Matters When Introducing Dogs

Why Neutral Territory Matters When Introducing Dogs Where a dog introduction takes place can be just as important as how it happens. Neutral territory removes territorial pressure, reduces anxiety, and allows dogs to interact without feeling the need to defend space or resources. Choosing the right environment sets the tone for respectful, low-stress introductions. What […]

Keeping Your Dog Calm During Snowstorms

Keeping Your Dog Calm During Snowstorms Snowstorms don’t just change the weather — they change your dog’s environment, routine, and emotional state. Strong winds, falling snow, pressure changes, and reduced activity can cause anxiety or restlessness in many dogs. Even dogs that normally enjoy winter weather may struggle during intense storms. Keeping your dog calm […]

Walks Help Me Feel Calm and Confident

Walks Help Me Feel Calm and Confident Hi. It’s me — your dog. I know you sometimes worry about me.You wonder if I’m anxious. If I’m nervous. If I’m confident enough to handle the world. Here’s something important I want you to know:Our walks help more than you realize. They don’t just move my body […]

Dog-Friendly Winter Events in the Boston, MA Area

Dog-Friendly Winter Events in the Boston, MA Area Winter in Boston brings snow-dusted streets, historic charm, and plenty of opportunities to explore the city with your dog. While colder temperatures may change how you spend time outdoors, Boston and the surrounding area still offer a variety of dog-friendly winter events and activities that keep both […]

The First 3 Weeks: Building Routine, Trust, and Confidence

The First 3 Weeks: Building Routine, Trust, and Confidence Why the First 3 Weeks Are a Turning Point After the initial decompression period, your rescue dog enters a new phase of adjustment. According to the 3-3-3 rule for dogs, the first three weeks are when dogs begin to understand their environment, form expectations, and test […]

My Resolution to Build Confidence and Independence

My Resolution to Build Confidence and Independence Dear Human, I Want to Feel Braver This Year This year, my New Year’s resolution is to build confidence — not just in the world around me, but in myself. Sometimes I hesitate. Sometimes I pause before stepping onto a new surface, meeting a new person, or entering […]

Consistency, Routine & Emotional Safety

Consistency, Routine & Emotional Safety Emotional safety is the invisible foundation of a strong relationship with your dog. When dogs feel emotionally safe, they are more relaxed, confident, and open to connection. Without emotional safety, even well-trained dogs can struggle with anxiety, reactivity, or withdrawal. Consistency and routine are the tools that make emotional safety […]