The ability to call your dog and know, without a doubt, that they will come running back to you is the foundation of ethical dog ownership. A reliable recall is a fundamental, potentially lifesaving safety skill for your dog, and understanding how to teach a dog recall is a prerequisite for enjoying the beautiful off-leash areas around Denver, Boulder, and the Colorado mountains safely.
How To Teach a Dog Recall Read More »
The Flatirons offer an unparalleled playground for our canine companions. Unlocking thousands of acres within the Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) for off-leash exploration represents the ultimate goal for many local dog owners. High-mileage roaming provides significant physical and mental benefits that a standard neighborhood walk cannot match, but it calls for excellent off-leash dog training.
Off-Leash Dog Training to Master the Boulder Wilderness Read More »
Ready for snowshoeing with a dog? Get essential training tips, gear checklists, and critical safety advice for your next trip.
Our Guide to Snowshoeing with a Dog Read More »
The scene is a familiar one: your dog is happily chewing on a bone, but the moment you walk into the room, their posture stiffens. A low growl rumbles from their chest as they turn their body to shield the bone. You might wonder, “Why is my dog acting this way?” or “Is my dog aggressive?”
This behavior is known as dog resource guarding, and while it can be alarming, it’s a natural, instinctual behavior that can be managed and improved with the right training. Resource guarding is not a sign of a “bad” dog, but rather a dog’s attempt to communicate that they feel a threat to a valuable item. This guide will help you understand why your dog exhibits this behavior, how to recognize the signs, and, most importantly, how to train it safely and effectively.
Is My Dog Resource Guarding? A Guide to Understanding and Training this Behavior Read More »
Living with a dog that struggles with aggression can feel overwhelming for families. From snapping at strangers to growling at other pets in the home, these behaviors often create stress and leave owners unsure of what to do next. Dog aggression rehabilitation offers a way forward by helping dogs learn healthier responses and giving owners the tools to manage behavior with confidence. At BlackPaw Dog Training, we’ve worked with dogs of all breeds and backgrounds to replace unwanted behaviors with calmer, more appropriate choices.
Everything to Know About Dog Aggression Rehabilitation Read More »
Ever wished you had a secret decoder ring for your dog’s barks, wiggles, and wags? Well, good news! While we can’t offer a magic ring, we can give you the next best thing: a comprehensive dog body language chart designed to help you finally “speak dog.” Your furry friend is communicating with you constantly, from the tip of their nose to the end of their tail – and learning to interpret these subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals is one of the most rewarding adventures you’ll ever embark on as a dog owner. Get ready to unlock a deeper bond, prevent misunderstandings, and truly connect with your beloved pup!Â
BlackPaw’s Dog Body Language Chart + How to Understand It Read More »
Does this scene sound familiar? You’re enjoying a walk on a beautiful Colorado day, but your eyes are scanning the horizon, not for the mountain views, but for other dogs. The moment you spot one, your stomach tightens. Your dog, who was just sniffing happily, is now rigid, fixated, and about to erupt into a frenzy of barking and lunging. Or maybe it’s the doorbell that turns your home into chaos, or a distant rumble of thunder that sends your best friend into a state of trembling fear.
The Super Guide to Desensitizing Your Dog Read More »
Ever watched a skilled Border Collie effortlessly guide a flock of sheep, or seen a confident Australian Shepherd keep rambunctious cattle in line? There’s something truly mesmerizing about herding dogs in action! These incredible breeds were specifically developed to work alongside humans, using their instincts to control and move livestock. But even if your furry friend’s “flock” consists of your kids, the mailman, or even just the cat, understanding their unique drive is key to a happy and harmonious home.Â
All There Is to Know About How to Train a Herding Dog Read More »
Blue Heelers, also known as Australian Cattle Dogs, are intelligent, high-energy breeds with a strong herding instinct. This combination of traits makes them both rewarding and challenging to train. Understanding the breed’s characteristics is crucial for effective Blue Heeler training.Â
10 Blue Heeler Training Tips Read More »
Double Trouble? Why Getting Two Puppies from the Same Litter Isn’t Twice the Fun Bringing home a puppy is exciting—there’s just something about a wagging tail and tiny paws that melts your heart. And when you’re looking at a whole litter of fluffy little faces, choosing just one? Nearly impossible. So, you start thinking… maybe
Double Trouble? Why Getting Two Puppies from the Same Litter Isn’t Twice the Fun Read More »
