Author Archives: Jamie

About Jamie

I'm just a traditionally-trained artist with interests in dog training. I currently teach classes at the local obedience training club (tricks, freestyle, and Rally-FrEe) and I also teach classes professionally for an organization who helps veterans train their own service dogs.

Competition Obedience

With the addition of several new classes in AKC, I decided maybe it was time to try obedience with Risa. I knew she’d never earn a CD; I won’t risk doing group stays with her. The Beginner Novice was a … Continue reading

Posted in Dog Sports, Fear, Obedience, Training | Leave a comment

Breeds

There’s an old saying that goes “If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck. . .it’s a duck.” But how do we really know if a dog is the breed we think he is. How is it … Continue reading

Posted in Thoughts | 2 Comments

She Needs You

Many years ago, Risa and I trained with a group of freestylers on Friday nights. It was an informal gathering where we we able to work on our routines and get feedback from fellow canine dancers. We all took turns … Continue reading

Posted in Dog Sports, Fear, Reactivity, Training | Tagged | Leave a comment

Measuring Success

Blue ribbons and trophies aren’t the only ways to measure success. Especially if you have a fearful dog. Or a reactive dog. Or a dog who is easily aroused. Each dog is an individual and you should judge him based … Continue reading

Posted in Dog Sports, Rally, Reactivity, Thoughts, Training | Tagged | Leave a comment

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

There is no doubt it’s been cold this winter. With sub-zero temperatures most mornings (and throughout the day), activity has been limited around here. I miss our 3-4 mile walks in the snow (especially when it’s deep because it’s a … Continue reading

Posted in Dog Toys, Thoughts, Training | Leave a comment