Agility Training for Fun and Fitness

You've probably watched competitive agility trials in which the handler moves her fingers just so and her dog completes an obstacle course at top speed. In our professional dog training experience, we've seen plenty of serious handlers work with their dogs to accomplish record times. But we've also enjoyed another type of agility training, meant to combine fun and fitness for your dog.

Formal agility trials are a wonderful sport, one that many people enjoy with their animals. But through pet dog and puppy obedience classes, Sarasota, FL, dog owners have let us know not everyone enjoys that level of competition. They would, however, enjoy running their dogs through their paces in order to share a fun, healthy activity. Does that sound like something you and your four-legged friend might enjoy? There are two important reasons an activity like non-competitive agility classes is valuable:

1. It's possible to combine positive dog training techniques with agility course training and improve your dog's overall behavior and,

2. It's fun! Spending a few afternoons running around an agility course, watching your dog leap, climb and crawl through obstacles is good for you and your dog.

So, what should you and your dog look for in a non-competitive agility class? During our years of dog training, Florida dog lovers have mentioned several promising signs:

* A fun, positive experience -- no shouting, punishment or grouchiness allowed!
* An environment in which owners and dogs grow closer while sharing an outdoor activity.
* Opportunities to fine-tune your dog's obedience by positive dog training methods.

When you locate a professional dog training school that offers this kind of agility class, ask if you can observe a session. We know in other forms of pet dog training, Sarasota, FL, dog owners sometimes need reassurance a class is right for their pets.

A fun agility class may be just what you need to sneak in a little more exercise into your pet's life. Why take the risk that lack of exercise will make your pet unhealthy, when playful physical activities such as this can be so beneficial? Once you and your pet have completed this first foray into fun, you may even decide to turn your own yard into a permanent agility course!

Five Signs it's Time for Obedience Training

Is your dog taking control of your house? While attending our pet dog and puppy obedience classes, Sarasota, FL, dog owners have shared a common list of complaints about their dogs' behavior. Here's our list of the top five signs it's time for obedience training.

Warning Sign #1: Inappropriate Behavior with Guests
When company comes, does your dog jump, nip and bark at them? A little enthusiasm might be normal, but when you're afraid to open the door, it's definitely time for some teaching! Positive dog training may be all that's needed to persuade your pet to be polite in company.

Warning Sign #2: Pulling on the Leash
Do you enjoy walking with your dog, or is it a contest from start to finish? Even the smallest dog can pull you along if they aren't trained to the leash. Why not make your outdoor excursions something both of you look forward to? Professional dog training can teach you how to guide your pet to a comfortable walking pace. Don't risk a fall or an injured arm; get professional help today to make walking a favorite time for you both.

Warning Sign #3: Biting
This is one behavior that should have you calling your dog training specialists, pronto! During our pet puppy training, Sarasota, FL, dog owners sometimes confess they've become afraid of their biting dogs. Don't give up on your biting pet! Allow someone expert at positive dog trainingtechniques to take the bite out of your family pet.

Warning Sign #4: Rough Play
It may seem at first like innocent roughhousing, but as dogs grow larger, rough play can definitely get out of hand. When your dogs "go at it" until it looks like a dogfight, call in a professional dog training expert. Following our own pet dog and puppy obedience classes, Sarasota, FL,pet owners express relief that their dogs now know when to call a halt to rough play.

Warning Sign #5: Swiping Objects or Food
Most puppies push your boundaries by swiping shoes, food or toys left within reach. But it's not much fun when you're searching the house for one half of your favorite pair of shoes. Give your dog family-friendly boundaries about taking objects and hiding them.

You love your pets, so do them a favor by engaging in professional dog training with them. When you see warning signs such as these cropping up, do the pet-friendly thing and help them learn behavior that will keep them at the heart of your home.