March 31, 2025
Did you know that up to 20% of dogs suffer from some form of allergies? Whether it’s environmental triggers like pollen and dust mites or food sensitivities hiding in their kibble, allergic reactions can cause persistent itching, digestive issues, and even chronic infections. Yet, many pet owners mistake these symptoms for minor irritations, letting their […]
Did you know that up to 20% of dogs suffer from some form of allergies? Whether it’s environmental triggers like pollen and dust mites or food sensitivities hiding in their kibble, allergic reactions can cause persistent itching, digestive issues, and even chronic infections. Yet, many pet owners mistake these symptoms for minor irritations, letting their furry friends suffer in silence.
If your dog has been scratching more than usual, licking their paws obsessively, or experiencing unexplained ear infections, they might be among the many pets struggling with undiagnosed allergies. Understanding the signs early can help you take action and bring your pup the relief they deserve. Let’s dive into the key symptoms every pet owner should know.
Step 1: Recognizing the Symptoms
Understanding the signs of dog allergies is the first step toward helping your pet. Watch for:
Step 2: Visiting the Vet for a Diagnosis
If your dog exhibits these symptoms, schedule a vet visit for an evaluation. Your vet may:
Step 3: Implementing Dietary Changes
Many dogs suffer from food allergies. To determine if food is the culprit:
Step 4: Managing Environmental Allergies
If your dog is allergic to pollen, dust mites, or mold, take the following precautions:
Step 5: Using Medications & Supplements
Some allergies require medical intervention. Your vet may suggest:
Step 6: Monitoring & Making Adjustments
Managing dog allergies is an ongoing process. Keep track of symptoms, monitor your dog’s response to treatments, and make adjustments as needed. Regular check-ups with your vet will help ensure your dog stays comfortable and allergy-free.
Lucy, a four-year-old Golden Retriever, struggled with allergies from a young age. Her owner, Mark, noticed persistent ear infections, constant paw licking, and skin rashes. Initially, he thought it was due to fleas or dry skin, but after consulting a vet, he discovered Lucy had food and environmental allergies.
Mark switched Lucy to a grain-free diet with novel proteins and started using medicated shampoos. He also invested in an air purifier and wiped her paws after walks. Within a few months, Lucy’s symptoms significantly improved—no more ear infections, less scratching, and a shinier coat. Mark’s proactive approach ensured Lucy could live a happy, itch-free life.
January 30, 2025
When it comes to dog training, the saying “you get what you pay for” couldn’t be more accurate. The quality of training your dog receives depends on the expertise, experience, and personalized attention of the trainer you choose. While it might be tempting to choose the most affordable option, cheaper training programs often fail to […]
When it comes to dog training, the saying “you get what you pay for” couldn’t be more accurate. The quality of training your dog receives depends on the expertise, experience, and personalized attention of the trainer you choose. While it might be tempting to choose the most affordable option, cheaper training programs often fail to deliver the results you want, leaving both you and your dog frustrated. Investing in a reputable, professional trainer is one of the best decisions you can make for your furry friend’s well-being and your peace of mind.
Highly qualified trainers bring much more to the table than basic training skills. They have extensive experience and often hold certifications that enable them to address complex behavioral issues, teach advanced commands, and provide effective solutions tailored to your dog’s unique needs. This level of expertise requires years of dedication and training, which is why professional trainers often charge higher fees. However, the results speak for themselves: your dog benefits from proven methods and a thoughtful, knowledgeable approach that cheaper alternatives simply cannot provide.
No two dogs are alike, and a good trainer knows this. Professional trainers take the time to understand your dog’s unique personality, behavior, and needs. This means customized training plans that go beyond cookie-cutter methods, focusing on areas where your dog needs the most help. While this level of attention may come with a higher cost, it’s a key factor in achieving lasting results and ensuring a happier, more confident dog.
In addition to teaching commands, professional trainers focus on building trust and communication between you and your dog. This creates a strong foundation for a lifelong bond that enhances your relationship. Effective training isn’t just about your dog’s behavior; it’s about helping you understand how to work with your dog and meet their needs. Cheaper programs often overlook this essential aspect, focusing on quick fixes rather than long-term solutions.
Here are some key reasons why investing in quality dog training is the right choice for you and your pet:
Choosing the right trainer is an important decision, and it’s essential to do your research. Here are some tips to help you make an informed choice:
Investing in professional dog training is about more than just teaching your dog to sit, stay, or walk on a leash. It’s about creating a lifelong bond built on trust, respect, and understanding. Professional training helps your dog become a well-behaved, confident companion who can navigate real-world situations with ease. Whether you’re addressing behavioral challenges or preparing your dog for advanced skills, a reputable trainer can make all the difference.
Quality training also benefits you as a pet owner. It equips you with the tools and knowledge to communicate effectively with your dog and maintain their training long after the sessions are over. This sets the foundation for a harmonious and enjoyable life together.
While cheaper training programs may seem like a good deal upfront, they often lead to disappointment and frustration. By investing in a professional trainer, you’re giving your dog the best chance to succeed and ensuring a better quality of life for both of you. Remember, the cost of professional training reflects the trainer’s expertise, the time they dedicate to your dog, and the lasting impact they create.
If you’re ready to give your dog the training they deserve, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our programs, meet our experienced trainers, and find out how we can help your dog become their best self. With the right training, you’ll see that the rewards far outweigh the costs. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for you and your dog.
December 2, 2024
“Most dog owners misunderstand what their dogs are truly trying to say.” Most dog owners like to think they’ve got their pups all figured out. A wagging tail means happiness, right? Not always. The truth is, dogs have a complex way of communicating with us through body language—more than we might realize. Every little ear […]
“Most dog owners misunderstand what their dogs are truly trying to say.”
Most dog owners like to think they’ve got their pups all figured out. A wagging tail means happiness, right? Not always. The truth is, dogs have a complex way of communicating with us through body language—more than we might realize. Every little ear flick, side glance, or tail movement can mean something different depending on the situation. And, let’s be honest, most of us miss a lot of it. Misunderstanding these signals can lead to frustration, misbehavior, or missed opportunities to connect with our four-legged friends. But don’t worry—once you start to get the hang of reading your dog’s body language, you’ll be able to build a deeper bond and even help your pup feel more comfortable and understood. Want to truly understand what your dog is telling you? Let’s get started.
There’s this common belief that a wagging tail automatically equals a happy dog. But here’s the kicker—it’s not that simple. Tail wags come in different speeds, positions, and even directions, each carrying its own message. A low, slow wag might be a sign of uncertainty, while a high, stiff wag could signal tension or an impending reaction. When you see your dog’s tail moving, don’t just assume; take a second to really pay attention. The details often tell a bigger story.
Ever notice how much your dog’s eyes say without them ever making a sound? Direct eye contact can mean everything from confidence to playfulness, but it can also be a challenge depending on the situation. On the flip side, if your dog is avoiding eye contact or you catch a glimpse of the whites of their eyes (sometimes called “whale eye”), it’s usually a sign of stress or discomfort. Reading these cues can help you better understand what your pup needs at any given moment.
Dog ears come in all shapes and sizes, but no matter the type, they tell a lot about what’s going on in that furry head. Ears pulled back can be a sign of fear, nervousness, or submission. Ears perked up? That usually means your dog is alert or super interested in what’s happening. By noticing the movement and position of their ears, you’ll start to pick up on what they’re feeling in different situations.
Think about how your dog holds themselves. A relaxed, confident pup might stand tall, while a fearful or unsure dog may hunch over or lower themselves. And if you’ve ever seen that classic “play bow”—with the front half lowered and the tail wagging in the air—you know it’s an invitation for some fun. Learning to read their posture gives you a better sense of how they’re experiencing their world.
Sometimes, it’s the small stuff that says the most. A dog licking their lips or yawning when they’re not tired might be stressed or trying to calm themselves down. A lifted paw can signal curiosity or uncertainty. These tiny cues are often overlooked, but they’re like little puzzle pieces that help complete the big picture of how your dog is feeling.
Just like with people, context matters. A tail wag in one situation might mean something totally different in another. Look at the bigger picture: what’s going on around you, your dog’s past experiences, and any triggers you’re aware of. The more you pay attention, the better you’ll get at understanding what’s going on beneath the surface.
Building a Deeper Connection By learning to decode your dog’s body language, you’re not just becoming a more informed pet owner, you’re stepping into their world and seeing life through their eyes. This deep understanding can transform your relationship, foster a sense of security, and create a happier life for both of you. Pay close attention, listen to what they’re “saying,” and watch as your bond grows stronger than ever.
Understanding your dog is a journey, but each moment of connection makes it more rewarding. So, next time you notice that tail wag or those shifting eyes, take a closer look; your dog might just be telling you something you didn’t expect.
March 29, 2024
Table of Contents Puppy Training Programs Dog Obedience Training Programs Behavioral Training Programs Board and Train Programs Therapy Dog Training Our Trainers Can Help You Choose the Perfect Training Program for Your Dog Whether you have a high-energy German shepherd or a cheeky Yorkshire terrier, dog training can give them the socialization and mental […]
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Whether you have a high-energy German shepherd or a cheeky Yorkshire terrier, dog training can give them the socialization and mental stimulation they need. However, with so many dog training courses to choose from, it can be challenging to find the best fit for your pet.
From puppy training to obedience classes, this guide gives you a helpful breakdown of the best dog training programs. You can then sign up with confidence and look forward to strengthening your bond with your pup or older dog.
While it’s certainly possible to teach an older dog some new tricks, it’s much easier to train puppies. Puppy training sessions help your new pet acquire skills such as basic obedience, confidence and socialization. If this is the first time you’re welcoming a dog into your household, puppy training programs will also help you learn what to expect from your pet. Learn more about the different puppy training courses we have on offer.
Puppies aged 10 to 20 weeks are welcome to join our Puppy Play and Train Program. By signing up, you and your puppy will benefit from two 60-minute intro and exit sessions as well as 12 full days of socializing and training. At the end of the course, your puppy will have mastered skills in the following areas:
In addition, our trainers will introduce you and your puppy to leash walking, crate training and agility work. This course offers a great foundation for further training and encourages healthy interactions with other dogs from the start.
It’s one thing for a puppy to obey a command in the comfort of your home — but the outside world is full of distractions. Our Group Puppy Obedience Training exposes your pup to different noises and smells, as well as people and dogs, helping them learn to follow commands in high-stimulation environments.
This program is suited to puppies between 12 weeks and 6 months and is held on Sunday mornings. Once your pup has completed six 60-minute training sessions, they should demonstrate basic obedience in public places.
If work commitments prevent you from attending training classes during the week, you may want to consider Private Training Lessons. The package includes five 60-minute training sessions. You can schedule them on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Aside from working through the puppy obedience and socialization basics, you’ll also benefit from personalized training tips from your experienced trainer.
If you’ve experienced the joy of raising a furry ball of boundless energy before, you may not want to sign up for an extended puppy training program. Our Puppy Consult Package is an excellent option for puppy owners who simply want to refresh their knowledge of obedience training.
During your once-off private training session, you and your new pup will learn the basics of obedience, manners and socialization. Working exclusively with our trainers also offers specific training advice for your pup’s breed and temperament.
Border collies, poodles and golden retrievers are some of the smartest dog breeds around — they require higher levels of mental stimulation to keep them out of mischief. Obedience training is an excellent way to keep your dog engaged while also ensuring their safety in public spaces. For example, instructing your dog to sit on the sidewalk while you wait to cross the road helps to keep them safe from oncoming traffic. If you’re interested in attending dog obedience training sessions with your pup or older dog, consider one of these options:
All our obedience training programs rely on positive reinforcement methods. By rewarding your dog for desired behaviors, you encourage them to repeat the behavior in the future. As you’ll need to practice the commands you learn at home, exploring different reward options for your dog is a good idea. Some common examples include treats, toys and even a game of tug. Many dogs have a high food drive, so high-value treats are often the most effective. Here are some ideas to try:
Obedience and behavioral training are distinctly different. Obedience training focuses on reinforcing certain behaviors, whereas behavioral training corrects bad habits. Behavioral training is a particularly helpful method for older dogs with established behavior patterns. However, some puppies may start to exhibit bad habits early on, and this training approach will help nip them in the bud. Dog behaviors that constitute problematic include:
Our Dog Aggression Training Package helps address these reactive behaviors and more. Over the course of six private lessons and three group sessions, you’ll work with our trainers to reinforce core commands such as “place,” “heel” and “off.” Once you’ve introduced these commands, you’ll use them to condition alternative responses. For example, if your dog tends to jump on you or your guests, reinforcing the command “place” will help them know where to go when someone enters your home.
At the end of the program, your dog will respond appropriately to triggers and threats. Knowing that your dog will react in a positive and consistent way helps pet owners feel at ease in public spaces.
Dog owners who choose one of our Board and Train Programs will book their dogs into our facilities for one or two weeks, depending on the course. During the specified period, your dog will undergo daily training to ensure reliable behavior in all environments. Some of the reasons why dog parents choose our Board and Train packages include:
If your dream is to have your dog accompany you on adventures to the park or beach, they will need to master recall. Our one-week Freedom Board and Train Program will achieve this essential learning outcome, allowing you to confidently let your dog off-leash in specified public spaces. In addition, our team will teach greeting manners and basic commands. We’ll also introduce the concept of “heel,” so you have the foundation to build good walking habits.
When you collect your dog at the end of the program, you’ll receive an E-collar and meet the trainer for a 90-minute session on how to reinforce the training techniques at home.
Two weeks may seem like a long time to be without your furry friend, but the results are worth it. Enrolling your dog in our Community K-9 Two-Week Board and Train Program will teach them appropriate responses to common mid-level distractions. For example, they’ll learn how to respond when someone knocks at the door or how to interact with other dogs at the park.
With this program, you’ll also receive an E-collar and a 90-minute training session at the end of the two weeks.
If you live in a busy metropolitan area, your dog will face a multitude of high-level distractions. These environments make it more challenging for dogs to obey commands, and there’s often a greater risk to their safety.
Our Urban Program will present your dog with various high-stimulation environments, such as busy airports, noisy train stations and crowded shopping centers. Extensive training in these environments will help your dog learn how to react in similar situations. In addition, they’ll learn how to hold an extended “sit” or “place,” so they don’t venture off into a busy road or onto the train tracks.
This program also includes an E-collar and a 90-minute private training session.
Aggressive or reactive dogs can unintentionally harm your home, other animals and even people. For this reason, you must correct this behavior as soon as possible. Our Aggressive/Reactive Program presents the most effective way to address problematic habits and condition alternative behaviors. By signing up for this board and train package, your dog will benefit from:
As with all our Train and Board packages, we’ll schedule a comprehensive 90-minute debrief session with you upon program completion. However, if you require a refresher course, we’re always happy to assist — free of charge.
According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), a therapy dog supports someone’s physical, social, emotional or cognitive needs. Therapy dogs frequently visit places like frail care centers, hospitals and hospices to bring comfort to adults and children. Unlike service dogs that are allowed to enter public buildings, therapy dogs have limited access. It’s best to research therapy dog regulations for your specific state so you know where they can and can’t go.
While you might argue that all dogs offer therapeutic benefits, they must first undergo training and assessments to qualify as a “therapy dog.” Off Leash K9 Training Maryland offers two courses for you to consider if you’d like to train your dog for clinical settings. Both courses are run by our dog trainers in Maryland who are certified canine behaviorists and AKC-certified evaluators.
If your dog has a calm demeanor and is affectionate with strangers, they’re probably a good fit for a therapy dog. By signing up for our Therapy Dog Development Program, your dog will participate in eight private lessons — four of which will focus on obedience, while the remainder will center on your dog passing the therapy dog certification.
In your sessions, you’ll work with experienced dog trainers in Maryland to gain a concrete grasp of five commands. You and your dog will also do extensive groundwork to ensure you’re ready to pass the therapy dog evaluation. At the end of training, your dog would have the standard obedience to be able to pass any certification.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) developed the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program to help all dogs be good dogs. Our Canine Good Citizen Prep course will help you and your dog prepare to pass the AKC CGC test. By signing up for this program, owners can enhance their dog’s obedience and establish a strong bond. The course assesses 10 skills along the following criteria:
If you’ve reviewed our puppy training, obedience and behavioral courses and are still coming up short, we’re here to help! Our expert team makes it their mission to recommend the best training program based on your dog’s nature and behavior. By signing up for the right course, you and your dog can enjoy many fun adventures together.
The Off Leash K9 Training Maryland team believes every dog is trainable. Whether they’re exhibiting problem behavior or you want to encourage better obedience, we’ll help you work through the relevant course. For more information about our programs, contact our experienced team of trainers for personalized advice on dog training in Maryland.
April 25, 2023
Table of Contents What Is a Therapy Dog? The Difference Between Service Dogs, Emotional Support Dogs and Therapy Dogs Do Therapy Dogs Have the Legal Right to Enter Certain Locations? So, Where Can You Take a Therapy Dog? Should You Train Your Dog to Be a Therapy Dog? Types of Dog Body Language Profiles […]
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Many misconceptions exist about what therapy dogs do and where they can go. If you have a therapy dog or you’d like to train your dog as a therapy dog, you need to know where you’re allowed to be. There are specific laws that govern the circumstances under which dogs are allowed.
There are also significant differences between therapy dogs, service dogs and emotional support animals. Each category of assistance animal is allowed to do different things. Knowing the facts about therapy dogs and their limitations is the first step to training a successful therapy dog yourself.
Therapy dogs, also known as comfort dogs, support people’s mental health by providing emotional support and comfort. They are trained to be calm, sweet and reassuring for people facing health or emotional difficulties. Therapy dogs and their owners work as a team to improve people’s lives, whether visiting an older adult in an assisted living facility or comforting a child in foster care.
Therapy dogs must display certain characteristics in tense or anxious situations. A successful therapy dog is:
Therapy dogs, emotional support dogs and service dogs perform different functions. While a therapy dog provides support and comfort to different people or a group of people, service animals perform specific tasks for their owners. They receive additional training aimed at helping their owners manage disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) allows service dogs to accompany their owners in public places.
Service animals must be dogs, whereas a therapy animal can be any animal calm and gentle enough to provide reassurance. An example of a service dog could be a dog who guides a blind owner or helps a person with a physical disability complete daily tasks. They stay with a specific person and have special privileges in public places.
Emotional support dogs are similar to service dogs in that they help specific people. They provide emotional support to their owners, who may have a mental or emotional condition, such as anxiety or depression. While they are not trained to complete specific tasks, they are still considered essential to their owners’ well-being. They may be allowed in housing that doesn’t typically allow dogs.
The quick answer is no. Therapy dogs are not classified the same way as service animals, and their access to specific locations is more limited. While a therapy dog can work anywhere, the venue must invite them to the premises. Therapy dogs work closely with their owner and handler and come as a team.
Therapy dogs are not protected under federal law, so they don’t have the same access to public places as service dogs. However, they serve a vital purpose — their calm temperaments and willingness to work with various people make them invaluable in many situations. Some familiar places you might find therapy dogs include the following:
Therapy dogs have the same legal rights as regular pets. As the owner of a therapy dog, you must ask permission before taking your dog somewhere new.
If you want to take your therapy dog to various locations and lend a helping hand, all you need is an invitation. You may find that individual service providers allow you to take your therapy dog places where a regular pet would not be welcome, but it depends on the circumstances.
There is no legally protected status for therapy dogs, but you may find they’re allowed in some of the following spaces:
Many laws concerning pet ownership and access vary from one state to another. While most regulations don’t cover therapy dogs, their obedient temperaments and excellent manners make them welcome in more places than you might imagine. Always double-check with a venue before bringing your therapy dog along. You might be pleasantly surprised at the reception.
If your dog has a suitable temperament to be a good therapy dog, training him is an excellent option. Dogs with calm and pleasant temperaments enjoy meeting new people, and taking them to different environments is mentally stimulating.
Often, a canine good citizen (CGC) test is a prerequisite of therapy organizations, so it’s an excellent place to start. It covers all the basics required for a therapy dog, including the following:
Once your dog has completed their CGC test, you may be ready to take the next step and become a therapy dog team.
If you think your dog has all the makings of an excellent therapy dog, training them will be incredibly rewarding. Off Leash Canine Training Maryland can help you turn your dog into a phenomenal therapy dog. We offer a canine good citizen preparation course and a therapy dog course assessed by our in-house Therapy Pets Unlimited evaluators. After our eight private lessons, we can evaluate you and your dog as a team for certification.
Our compassionate and knowledgeable trainers are here to help you one-on-one and can provide extra individual attention to help you achieve your goals, no matter your dog’s age, breed or size. Contact us to sign up for our therapy dog training course!
