Notes from the trail
Training insight, dog psychology, and honest advice from our work with Treasure Valley dog owners.
FeaturedThe Unbreakable Bond: Why Building a Strong Relationship with Your Dog Matters
The Unbreakable Bond | MSK9 | Dog Training


5 Reasons Why I Do Not Take My Dogs to the Dog Park (And What I do Instead!)
Why a balanced trainer skips the dog park, and the structured pack walks, training games, and controlled off-leash adventures we use instead.

10 Proven Dog Training Tips to Prepare Your Dog for Your New Baby
Bringing home a baby? Ten trainer-tested ways to prepare your dog for the new arrival, from sound desensitization to boundaries and calm introductions.

8 Things to Consider Before Using Food During Your Dog’s Training Session
Food is a powerful training tool, but it can backfire. Eight things to weigh before you reach for treats in a training session.

TOP 10 Reasons I Crate Train as a Balanced Dog Trainer & Dog Owner
Crate training is widely misunderstood. Here are the top 10 reasons a balanced trainer crate trains, from a safe den to travel, decompression, and confidence.

Are You Making Any of These Common Puppy Mistakes?
The most common puppy-raising mistakes, from skipping crate training to over-socializing and over-treating, and what to do instead.
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