Talk Dog Blog

We are open for grrreat grrrooming!

2011-11-29T12:53:00.001-08:00

Jeannette knows her stuff! Look at what a great job

You can’t tell me a dog doesn’t know when he looks GOOD!

Another owner happy with the puppy play

2011-11-29T12:49:00.001-08:00

Hi All!
Boarding over the Holidays was fabulous! Full House! So many dogs went home tired and their owners loved it!
From Laura:
Hi Adam,
Thank you SO MUCH for keeping Spencer and Zobie busy...whatever you
did with them worked wonders, because I practically had to drag them
out the door to potty tonight! They are exhausted!! Was able to get
all kinds of things done while they were passed out...THANK YOU!!!!

First Day of Grroooming!

2011-11-28T12:53:00.001-08:00

We are open for grrreat grrrooming! Jeannette knows her stuff! Look at what a great job

You can't tell me a dog doesn't know when he looks GOOD!

Turkey Day Testimonial

2011-11-28T12:36:00.001-08:00

From Mallory :

Hi Kalyn! I just wanted to let you know that Millie and Oliver came back completely EXHAUSTED! Oliver fell asleep in the car on the way home, and they both slept for about 14 straight hours once we got home! I think they must have had a lot of fun! Thanks again for such a great experience!

Doggie Daycare OPEN!!

2011-11-19T04:51:00.001-08:00

We are open for business but still in the process of completion so Grand Opening is still a bit away. We'll keep you posted on the Grand Opening! It'll be a big Puppy Party!!! J

2011-11-07T12:58:00.001-08:00

Thank you to Roy Williams from Birmingham News for coming out and seeing what we’re building for the dog lovers of Birmingham. With We Talk Dog’s Grand Opening right around the corner, Roy brought out his talented photographer, Linda, to see what the hard work has produced so far. Roy also brought his precious Shih-chon puppy, Diamond, out with him for a day of daycare. She’s a precious little fluff ball that’s a little shy around strangers. Hopefully, we can help her come out of her shell a bit. Just a few more weeks and we are looking forward to having both play yards loaded with dogs.

Pet Safety Tips for Kids

2011-01-04T15:30:00.001-08:00

Pet Safety Tips for Kids*

Ask the owner before petting Rover.
Many dogs are very friendly, but some dogs are not. Make sure to ask the owners if their dog is friendly
and if it’s okay for you to pet the dog; make sure to also ask your own parent or guardian before you
pet a stranger’s dog. Be sure to follow all of the safety tips!
Puppy or kitten, ask for permission.
It is also important to ask an adult before petting puppies or kittens, especially when the mama dog or cat
is present. Mothers of almost any animal are naturally protective of their babies.
Petting the chin is where you begin.
After you have received permission to pet a dog, you should begin petting the dog under its chin or on its chest, always approaching from the side of the dog.
This way the dog can see where your hand is and what you are doing. Many dogs don’t like to be petted
on the top of the head. They might think you are trying to hurt or dominate them.
He sniffs your hand to understand.
A dog’s sense of smell is much, much greater than our own. Dogs use this sense of smell when greeting
and getting to know newcomers. If a dog smells you to get to know you, let him sniff the back of your
hand. This will keep your fingers out of the way as well as not threaten the dog.
If he has a bone, leave him alone. If he has a snack, you must keep back.
If a dog is eating or is chewing on a bone or other item, he/she might think you are going to take it away,
which could cause the dog to protect what it has by growling, snapping or biting.
Respecting his space will save your face.
It is common sense to keep a respectable distance between a child's face and the teeth of a dog or a cat,
even if it is the family pet.
If you run and shout, he's gonna freak out.
The way you behave can influence the way a dog behaves. If you scream, shout, run or swing your arms
or feet around dogs, they are more likely to chase or attack you.
He'll think you’re the bomb if you act very calm.
Your behavior can influence the way any dog behaves, but shy or nervous dogs can be even more
affected by rambunctious children. Being calm around a shy dog can make them feel less nervous and
more secure.
Whether girl or a boy, never tease or annoy.
If you are teasing or annoying a dog or a cat, they can’t tell you in words that they want you to stop; but
they can tell you to stop by growling, biting or scratching.
Quiet and slow is the way to go.
If you are scared of a dog, do not run or scream. It is safer to walk away slowly and quietly. As you
calmly walk away, try not to stare into the dog’s eyes; or the dog might think you want to fight.
*from www.dogbitelaw.com

Is Getting One Dog at a Time Better or Two

2010-12-06T07:09:00.000-08:00

Is Having One Dog or Two Dogs at a Time Better?

The question posed is "Are two puppies twice the fun or quadruple the work?". Short answer/question…If given the choice at the hospital, would you take home a single child or a set of twins? :))

It's done with the best of intentions:

1) It’s time to add a puppy to your family and you want the best for your new furry friend. You have gotten the bed, bowls, and toys...everything for your new friend. You go to pick up your puppy and find that there is one puppy left in the litter that no one has taken home. You watch your puppy playing with his littermate. They are rolling and tussling back and forth, wearing each other out, and a light bulb clicks on in your head. "Our family is busy and there will be times when our puppy is left by himself. I don't want him to get lonely. I want him to grow into a happy dog". You turn to the breeder and say, "I'll take both!" with a big smile on your face...after all isn't having two puppies twice the fun? ...

2) You’ve had Fido for a week or so. Life has caught up to you and you've been really busy! When you get home from your long day at work, your buddy is so happy to see you and wants to play, play, play! You're tired and think, " I could get another puppy and they could play together all day so they'll tire each other out and then when I get home it will be "lovin" time." You start looking for a playmate that night as your puppy chews on your shoelaces. ...

3) You have a good dog that has a lot of energy! Whew, he wears you out trying to keep up with him! What you need is a doggy buddy for him to play with all day and burn off his extra energy...You'll get a puppy for him. Your older dog is a good dog and can "help" you raise the new puppy by showing it how to behave...

Whatever the reason for a multi-dog household, we have to take our feelings out of the picture and look for the best for our dogs from their point of view. Puppies at the age of 7-8 weeks have, hopefully, had the opportunity to learn valuable life lessons from their mother and their siblings. At this age, they are developing personalities and looking for relationships. They are ready to leave their pack and build a bond with you. This is the easiest window of time for that bond to form. When you have a multi-dog household, this bond can be damaged, if not handled correctly.

It’s much easier for a puppy to look to another puppy or dog for the bond of companionship. They speak the same language. It takes more effort for the puppy to connect with something that doesn't look like him, smell like him, or speak his native tongue. Bonding with a human and learning the human society rules can sometimes be a little difficult. Dogs left alone "to be dogs" are going to do just that... be dogs. They are also going to bond closely, sometimes becoming two halves of a whole instead of 2 individual dogs.

With this situation, we see an increased level of anxiety in the dogs. They become agitated when separated from the other dog, even a distance as close as across the room. They are vocal and destructive if left alone without their pack mate. They become manic if one has to go to the vet for an overnight stay. It can lead to constant fighting between the siblings and increased dog aggression. It may even manifest as human aggression because the trust and bond with a human has never been formed. These behaviors are detrimental for the dogs. Some of them will land in a humane society where they will be un-adoptable due to their problems. Most people do not realize that this could be a death sentence for the dog.

No one wants this for his or her dog's future, so now, what to do? We have to put our feelings aside and make a responsible choice for the wellbeing and sanity of your four-legged friend.

The "Unthinkable" for most people...Re-home one of the dogs. No one wants to part with a dog that they have fallen in love with. It’s painful and heartbreaking for both you and your dogs. If you have difficulties with the dog already, waiting to see if they outgrow the behaviors can make it VERY hard to find a home. It takes a special person to try to fix a problem dog.

The responsible option is easier on the heart but harder on the owner....treating the dogs as individuals from day one. We understand this goes against why you got two dogs in the first place, but in the long run it can be absolute bliss for your family and your dogs! To treat the dogs as individuals means twice the "dog work" for you but also twice the love and devotion. Train each dog separately. Spend time with each one. Let them play together occasionally but you make sure you have more play time with them than they have with each other. They must have their own space to grow and develop that dog/human bond of companionship. You DO NOT have to keep them apart forever but they will need this individual attention for at least the first year of their lives or coming into your world so they look to you for their love and leadership.

Please don't misunderstand; We are not advocating one-dog households. I have two dogs myself, Adam has two dogs and most of our clients have more than one dog. You can have as many dogs as you want but remember that owning a dog is privilege and to live up to that you have to do what's best for those that you care for. If you choose to keep both dogs and feel you’re over your head at any point, contact us. The best option is simply to train your dogs so they may live, love, play together and look to you and your family first and foremost for all their needs. If you need help with coming up with a plan, call us. We are always here to help you.

Wishing you furry hugs and sloppy kisses,

Adam Summerford

Kalyn Trichell

Talk Dog Training and Coaching

WeTalkDog.com

2010-06-12T06:09:00.001-07:00

Kalyn and Adam are worth their weight in GOLD! Not only were they professional and extremely effective with our new puppy Great Dane, Wasabi and our 8-year-old mutt, Max, they were very interested in our dogs, their connection to our family dynamics, patient, and kind. I had come down with a disability and our Great Dane puppy was growing faster than we could possibly train her. This was a potential nightmare. With their assistance over several visits, WE learned how to train our own dogs and that education would help us out for our dogs and our lifetimes.

If you are having any behavior problems (big or small) with your dogs, you must contact them immediately! It has made our household much calmer and peaceful!

Most sincerely,

Lynn & Mike

The Three Musketeers

2010-04-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

Kalyn & Adam –
Thanks so much for all the knowledge and help you gave my parents and I Saturday. The dogs are already changing for the better. Buddy went almost a full 24 hours with no barking!! Last night was our first REAL test – a friend came to visit, rang the doorbell/knocked and I of course expected Buddy to tear through the house like always. It was almost scary…he stayed on his bed and never moved! I actually had the door opened for a few minutes while we got something out of my friend’s car and he never moved a muscle! We’re still having some issues with him going to the bed every time but if I can get him to sit and stay we’ve got it made! Thanks again for all of your help!!

Pete and Bear were making strides when they left yesterday so I’m anxious to talk to my parents tonight and see how their first night at home went. Bear seems to almost be a little more defiant than he was before which is weird but I’m sure he’s just adjusting. Pete still wants to challenge us a little bit but Dad is staying strong and working on the homework and such. We can’t thank you enough and look forward to the day when you can come visit again and won’t recognize the “3 Musketeers”!
-Candi

HTTD Featured on CBS 42's Wake Up Alabama

2010-04-15T07:23:00.000-07:00

This morning, we were in CBS 42's studio to share a few training tips with Alexa Jones and her dog Ruby.

This Saturday, we'll be at Bark for Life at Moody City Park, benefitting the American Cancer Society. Contact Dr. Rachel Nelson at Crossroads Animal Clinic in Moody at (205) 640-4327 for additional details.

AshLeigh and Emma

2010-03-26T09:34:00.000-07:00

Hey!
Emma is doing great. I took her to our "Rascal Day" at school which is a day where we
can bring our dogs to school for a parade, treats, and playtime. She
had a great time. She was very calm. Last year she pulled me the entire
way there and then growled at multiple dogs. This year she didn't pull
me at all. Everyone of my friends said she was a brand new dog. I even
got to put the leash down on my lap while I ate lunch and she laid there
next to me calmly. She never growled at any of the dogs, and actually
made a few friends. She hung out with a maltese and chihuahua all day!
She normally tries to chase smaller dogs, but relaxed with these little
dogs in the sunlight. At home she has been very good. She has even
played with my boyfriend's weimeraner. She used to immediately attack
Lacy, or only last a few moments until they got into a fight. Now, she
and lacy will play for 15 - 20 minutes wrestling without a single issue.
Emma only growls when Lacy growls first and she immediately relaxes
when we intervene. She used to go into attack mode and attack nonstop.
Now she goes immediately back into play mode. She even takes Lacy toys
when we get them out! Emma's vet even said she is a much happier dog
and completely different. She has lost weight since her new food. She
has eaten the better food for a month and it has actually lasted a month
while her old food only lasted 2 weeks. My friends compliment her all
the time. My parents even said she is acting much more calm and not as
neurotic as she had been. Thank you!!
-AshLeigh

Boarding

2010-03-15T05:15:00.000-07:00

Thank you!
I was about half zombie yesterday afternoon, and I don't think I thanked you properly for the nail trim. I can't believe y'all did that and I appreciate it so much! What a super nice thing to do! I abandoned ship a long time ago b/c I quicked them so many times, they just won't let me get near when they see me coming with the clippers. Plus, I get all nervous and flustered and mad. Anyway, y'all are the GREATEST!! Thanks!!
Samantha

A "Bogey" story

2010-02-04T08:19:00.000-08:00

Hey there, Adam!!!

First I wanted to thank you for the newsletters...I really enjoy reading the information you're providing!!!

Secondly, Bogey (I'm guessing you remember "BogeyNo") has been doing something that absolutely makes me laugh and I wanted to share it with you. You taught us to do what I call his "focus" training. You may remember how "unfocused" he was and how difficult that was for us to do. We would always practice in the driveway since that seemed to be the easiest place with the most space. He eventually began responding and doing very well and after I completed the circle around him, I would give him a big hug and "Good Boy!!!"

Awhile ago upon returning from our morning (5 AM!!!) walk, we got to the top of the driveway and he began acting a little strange. I was wondering what was up as he quickly walked over and sat in his spot and WANTED me to "focus" train HIM. (As you can see, he is still the boss!!!) I'm sure he loves the hug at the end, but almost without fail, a few times each week, he quickly gets to his spot after our walk and we make half moon circles until I completely walk around him and give him that big ol' hug.

Bogey will be "2" on February 1 and really has become a wonderful dog. Of course, we still have things that we should and need to work on with him, but he is a great addition to our family. I know everyone says, "Our dog is so smart" and in most cases, they are correct. I have to say that, too. I almost feel like Bogey should be doing something really productive because he is so astute. Now, if we could only get him to sleep past 5 AM on the weekends!!! There's another story there, but I won't bore you with the details.

I hope things are going well for you and 2010 will be a successful year!!! Thank you again for the help you gave us and keep those newsletters coming!!!

Take care,

Cheryl

Socializing your puppy

2010-01-15T07:01:00.000-08:00

Training your puppy is more than just housetraining and the basics. Puppy socialization is a key factor in your puppy training routine. The crucial period for puppies in this training process can range from 4 to 12 weeks of age.

During this important time in his development, the young pup is pretty impressionable to external influences. If its experiences are positive with people, young and old, other animals such as cats, as well as other dogs, etc., then it is likely to be open to them during his life. On the other hand, if his experience while a young pup is not pleasant, or completely absent, they may be a bit apprehensive later on.

   As part of the training for your puppy, and during his period of socialization, it is important to try and expose the dog to a wide variety of social events and situations as is possible.

     Try to keep the socialization activities basically fun, light-hearted and pressure free. It's important not to overwhelm the young pup with too much information at once during the puppy training. Socializing ought to be a happy and positive experience that will teach the puppy that his world is a safe and happy, not scary, place.

     Training your puppy can be a rewarding experience. Remember, a confident, well-socialized young puppy that looks to you as a leader will be a much more enjoyable and accessible training partner.

Making the Vet a Dog's Best Friend

2009-12-31T07:21:00.000-08:00

Making the Vet a Dog's Best Friend

OK, it might be a bit much to expect a dog to become seriously fond of the the guy who prods him for no apparent reason, and inserts foreign objects into his genitalia. While you can't change the unpleasant nature of your vet's job, you can try to make sure your dog has as pleasant an experience as is possible when he goes to the vet's office.

Choose the Right Vet

Your vet is going to be the second most important person in your dog's life, after you. He's not just the guy who prescribes medication when your dog falls ill, but also helps prevent diseases by examining your dog, and catching an infection before its too late. Make sure you're comfortable with his vet.

When looking around for a vet, check his clinic and waiting rooms. Do they look clean and airy? Does the waiting room have separate areas for dogs and cats, or will your dog be sharing space with an entire posse of screeching cats? What about the staff? Are there enough vets and vet assistants, and do they seem professional and experienced? Does the clinic specialize in many different veterinary medicine fields, or offer just basic veterinary services? Do they have a diagnostic lab on site, to collect and examine stool and blood samples? Do they offer emergency services?

Taking Your Pup to the Vet

If your puppy is still just a few weeks old, you have either taken him to a vet for his first physical, or are planing on doing so. Keep these things in mind to have a pleasant vet visit.

Help your new puppy socialize with other people. This doesn't mean only members of your family, but also your neighbors, friends etc. A puppy who has very limited exposure to strangers is more likely to feel threatened and nervous in the presence of a vet.

Practice mock physical examinations in your home. Lie your dog down, and examine his eyes, mouth, teeth, and paws. Rub his belly, and feel around his abdomen the way a vet does. Having all these things done in the security and comfort of home can make a dog feel less threatened when he's splayed out on the vet's table and being prodded with steel objects.

Practice having him on a leash. You will likely have to wait for your turn, and there will be other animals there. If he's small enough, put him in a crate, and carry him to the vet's office.

Take him for a walk, and try to collect a stool sample before you leave for the vet's office. If it's a first time visit, your vet will likely need a stool sample, and it saves you the trouble of having to visit again with a fresh sample.

If your dog still hasn't been socialized and is aggressive towards others, keep him in the car, and inform the staff that you've arrived for your appointment. You can take him into the office when your turn comes around.

Take him out for short drives regularly, or you risk having him think that you're off for a vet visit every time he gets in the car. A dog who's afraid of cars needs a whole other regimen of training to recondition his behavior. By taking frequent joy rides, your dog doesn't become anxious as soon as he gets into the car.

At the Vet's Office

While at the vet's office, show your dog there is nothing to be worried about. Remain calm and be as quiet as possible. The best reassurance for your dog is to know that you are in control of the visit and you will take care of him. This is not the time for you or anyone around you to use a high-pitched squeeky, excited voice with your dog. Ask the techs to talk to your dog as they would talk to you. Save the excited "dog voice" for after you leave the vet office and you take your dog to the park to play.

If he needs an overnighter, make sure he has his security blanket or favorite toy to remind of home, and feel comfortable in an unfamiliar surrounding.

Picking The Perfect Pooch

2009-12-06T07:16:00.000-08:00

It's that most wonderful time of the year! Many of you may be thinking of adding a dog to your pack this Christmas Season. There are many options available for you to choose your new family member. Some will adopt a dog from a rescue organization or a local animal shelter while others will want to start fresh with a brand new puppy. No matter what route you choose, it is important that your dog begin his journey in his new home as a calm submissive member of your pack. Here are some helpful tips to consider when picking your pooch

Consider your lifestyle and reasons for getting a dog:
1. You need to choose a dog that compliments your family and lifestyle. Is your household full of life, or are you an empty nester that is ready for a little peace and quiet? Do you live in a house or an apartment? Do you have any restrictions based on allergies or rental contracts? These questions are very important when picking your dog.
2. You want to pick a dog that has a lower energy level than your family. It takes a strong dog trainer to care for a dog with a high energy level.
3. Research breeds. Even though a dog is a dog first, they do have breed tendencies. For example, an Australian Shepherd is going to try to herd your children. It's what they were born to do. They do this by running behind them and nipping at their heels. Does this mean that you can't teach this breed not to herd the children? Absolutely not. Just know that this is a behavior you may have to contend with as a result of this dog's breed.
4. Why are you getting a dog? This time of year, we are tempted to give a dog as a gift. While we don't want to take away the surprise factor, it is important that the new owner be involved in the selection process. The dog needs to know from day one who is in charge. If you are buying or adopting a dog for your children, know that you will be the primary care giver. Generally speaking, if your child is 12 years old or younger, your new dog will see them as simply a littermate and not a leader. This doesn't mean your child cannot be involved in the training process. It simply means that the training must be monitored by you.

Things to consider when picking out your pooch:

1)
Don't make the mistake of getting 2 dogs. We get phone calls as a result of this all the time. People tell us that they got 2 puppies or rescued 2 dogs so that they can keep each other company. Unfortunately, in this situation the dogs are going to pay more attention to each other than to you. We would like to say that you have doubled your trouble, but actually you have probably quadrupled it. The dogs speak the same language. So, they are communicating with each other and leaving you out of the loop entirely. Your family members will be your dog's new pack.
2) If purchasing from a breeder, make sure they are a reputable breeder, not a puppy mill. Visit the home or the kennel. How are the pups being cared for? Is their area clean? Do they have an appropriate area away from their sleeping area to eliminate?
3) If adopting from a shelter or rescue group, make sure their organization is reputable. Do they have a non-profit status and proper licensing? Check the facilities.
4) Make sure you are aware of any contracts or application processes required beforehand.
5) Don't pick a dog because you feel sorry for him. Oftentimes, when we put our human emotions on a dog we're wrong. They are probably thinking just the opposite of what we think they are. For example, what you may consider "sadness" may simply be avoidance in the dog that later leads to bigger behavioral problems.
6) Try to see what the dog is like outside of the kennel. Many times, you will see a big change in the dog's behavior.
7) Make sure that your new dog has received all shots, had a thorough vet exam and has been spayed or neutered if age appropriate.
8) Know that you may not find the right dog for your family in one visit. It's O.K. You have a lifetime to spend with your dog. Don't rush the process and end up with a dog that is not a good fit for your family. Look at as many dogs as possible.

Be a Pack Leader for the Beginning:

Remember these tips when meeting your dog for the first time
1) Be committed to being a pack leader. Owning a dog is a huge responsibility. Make sure you have the time to commit to caring for and training your new dog. You have to set rules and boundaries from the very beginning.
2) Make sure that all family members are on the same page. You can't have one family member training and another entertaining. This will only confuse your dog. A good pack leader is always consistent.
3) If adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, make sure to let go of any emotions you have about how the dog has been treated in the past. Dogs only live in the present.
4) When visiting the shelter or kennel, make sure you are in a calm state of mind. Your dog will translate excess energy or nervousness as weakness
5) Greet your dog in a non-confrontational way. Avoid eye contact, don't stand face forward to the dog and let them smell you first.
6) Take your new dog on a proper walk before getting in the car and then again before entering your home. A proper walk consists of you leading the walk: no pulling on the leash, sniffing, barking or excessive eliminating.
7) Enter the house first and immediately establish a "place" for your dog to rest when not engaged with you.
8) It's more what you do than what you say that makes a difference with your dog. Use your body language and simple one word commands when correcting unwanted behaviors.
9) Reward good behaviors with physical and verbal praise only. Treats are a reward for us not for the dog. If you aren't careful, treats will be used as bribes. We want good behaviors to be a result of respect for us.
10) Do not leave food down for your dog to eat all day. "He who is in charge of the food is in charge." (If you have a dog weighing less than 4 pounds consult your veterinarian concerning feeding schedules.)

If you have any questions concerning picking out your new pooch or just want to make sure you are getting started on the right track , please contact the trainers at How To Talk Dog.

2009-11-26T07:13:00.000-08:00

Hey Adam and Kalyn!
I just wanted to share with y'all that today, for the first time in a year and a half, I got ready for work without sequestering Lulu. The baby gate stayed open and she and Princess were both in the den in their respective spots on their beds. It's the first time in months and months that I've felt confident enough in them and in myself, my ability to control them, to allow it. Perfect Percy, of course, was right there with Princess, as he always is. I checked a couple of times while I was blowing my hair dry, and they stayed put. I was so proud and happy, I nearly cried. Tonight, for the second night in a row, all 4 of us have curled up on the sofa together to watch t.v., peacefully.

This year, the thing I'm most thankful for is what you have given me. You've had a tremendously positive impact on all our lives. Thank you very much.

Hope you both have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
-Samantha

How To Talk Dog Birmingham
www.howtotalkdogbham.com

Another Client

2009-09-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

"We knew that if we just listened to the things that Adam & Kalyn told us, we would have the dog that we wanted. We saw a difference in our Sophie the day that HTTD came to our house and started the training. Of course after the training we had to implement some changes in our home and in our lives to make us the pack leaders, and I won't lie, it wasn't easy -- but we knew that it was the best thing for our dog and that it would help her have a much healthier, obedient, and stress-free life, and that is the most important thing to us. After making those changes, we now have the absolute best dog in the world! We loved the experiences we've had with HTTD! We strongly recommend them to anyone that owns a dog, even if you think that your dog doesn't need "training"! It will help you have a better relationship with your pet, and help you truly learn 'how to talk dog'!"

- Josh & Alicia D

Client Progress Report

2009-09-16T15:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Adam,
Wow, first I would like to say thank you so very much to you and Kalyn! Ya'll have made what I thought to be impossible, possible. I must admit, when I first heard about How to Talk Dog on Rick and Bubba one morning I was thinking to myself yeah right, they probably couldn't help my dogs. Then I thought, "well, it's worth a try. It can only get better from here." I made the phone call and scheduled the appointment. A couple of weeks later you were at my door with smiles on your faces. I was thinking to myself, "I have a really long list and I really hope you can help me." After hours of not only training the dogs, but myself as well, the skepticism I previously had, turned into disbelief. The dogs were in the house lying on the floor next to me. There was no more: barking, chewing, scratching on the door, jumping on people and things, running into the house when the door opens, nibbling, separation anxiety, house breaking, digging, fear of people, difficulty walking on a leash. Naturally not everything was fixed in that one session; however, having them calmly come into the house and not jump on the furniture or people or bark at the door was definitely an accomplishment. As instructed, I continued the training and techniques for the next two weeks and as you said I would have the loving, happy dogs I want. I must say you could not have been more right! It has now been about six months. I have what I believe to be the "perfect" dogs and I could not be happier with the outcome :-) My dogs are now living inside with me, sleeping in the bedroom at night, and being the happy, stress free dogs I have always wanted them to be. Not only do we have happy dogs, but we also have happy owners! I am so glad ya'll were able to see the outcome of your program, and it meant so much to me to hear how impressed and happy ya'll were with our progress. I support this program 100% and I am proud to say that I am a very satisfied client. I without a doubt enjoy telling my success story and campaigning for How to Talk Dog whenever the opportunity presents itself! Again, I can't thank you enough. Not only are you kind, warm-hearted people, but you have been so patient with me and that really means so much! Hope to see ya'll again soon!

P.S.
The paragraph below does not even sound like my dogs; however, it did help remind me of how they use to behave. Thank goodness that is no longer the case :)
Carly B
> ---------------------------------------------------------------------
> dogname: Sayde and Riley
> message: My dogs are okay, but could use a little help. I have two dogs, a Border Collie mix, Sayde, and a mini Austrailian Shepard, Riley. I adopted both of them when they were puppies. Sayde is almost a year old now and Riley is about 9 months. The problems that are presented between the two of them are: barking, chewing, scratching on the door, jumping on people and things, running into the house when the door opens, nibbling, separation anxiety, house breaking, digging, fear of people, walking on a leash, riding calmly in the car, and splashing water out of their dog bowl. My hope is to get them to a point of obedience where I can sit on my back porch and enjoy myself and them. I also would like to have them trained well enough so they are allowed to come into the house every now and then without destroying something or jumping on furniture. They are two very loving dogs who just need a little help. Thanks!!!
> ~Carly B
Posted by: Adam Summerford

New Website Launch!

2009-01-18T17:04:00.000-08:00

We've launched our new website! Now you can find more information about are services, including How to Talk Dog™ House Calls, the new way to "talk dog" right in your own home.

Pooch Personality Quiz

2009-01-18T17:03:00.000-08:00

Wondering if you need the How to Talk Dog™ House Calls service? Take our Pooch Personality Quiz, and find out whether your best friend is a perfect angel or not.

How to Talk Dog™ House Calls

2009-01-18T17:02:00.000-08:00

Now the How to Talk Dog™ method can be taught right in your home by our trainers with How to Talk Dog™ House Calls!

In one session you'll learn:

Housebreaking techniques
Lead training
How to stop anxious barking, jumping and chewing
How to stop aggression toward people or other dogs
How to manage your dog's separation anxiety
How to solve any other behavior problems your dog exhibits

Contact us online or by phone at (205) 568-5570 to set up your appointment for your house call, and you'll be "talkin' dog" in no time at all!