Dog Blog
F.A.Q: Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Use Positive Dog Training Methods? Yes, we do use a lot of positive reinforcement methods, to the extent that they actually achieve results. That said, we are not “purely-positive” or “force-free” because we also use positive methods in combination with...
Q & A: How To Stop Puppy Lunging and Biting, How To Wean Puppy Off of Potty Pads
Question: Hello Chad, I hope you are doing well. We found your training page as we were looking for some help with our 5 month old Labrador puppy. He is extremely sharp, potty trained and a fast learner. However, a couple of issues we have not been able to understand...
The Cautionary Tale of the Smiths (puppy book excerpt)
The Smiths are a fictitious family but everything about them is true. Their story is based on real clients and situations from my experiences as a professional dog trainer. Some details may have been altered slightly for privacy protection but, other than that, this...
The Puppy Prepper Shopping List (puppy book excerpt)
Puppy Training Shopping List You can’t do a good job without the proper tools, so the first thing you will need to do is go shopping for a few things. This shopping list covers the puppy essentials as well as some extras. Some are critical and need to be purchased...
Triggers and Underlying Causes of Dog Aggression: Part 11: Genetics
Genetics and Dog Aggression As we have seen throughout this series, there are many factors that can contribute to dog aggression, most of which can be avoided or resolved by providing dogs with holistic, balanced training, socialization, leadership and a fulfilling...
The Five Senses of Off-Leash Dog Training
Wanna know the secret to amazing off-leash dog training greatness? Ok, I am going to tell but please don’t like or share it because this is super top secret classified information. Shh, it’s just between us, ok, so don’t tell anyone. Defining Off-Leash Dog Training...
Tails From The Field: Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen
“Tails From The Field” is a series of true stories from Chad Culp’s experience in the field of professional dog training. Some details, such as names and breeds, may have been changed for privacy protection. --------------------------------------------------------...
Triggers and Underlying Causes of Dog Aggression: Part 10: Guarding, Protecting and Spoiling
Guarding, Protection and Spoiling Guarding and protecting are not necessarily bad character traits in a dog but they certainly can become problematic and, in some cases, highly dangerous. While this topic has a degree of overlap with Dominance, I wanted to give...
Triggers and Underlying Causes of Dog Aggression: Part 9: Pain or Stress
Pain or Stress Can Be at the Root of Dog Aggression A very common dog bite scenario is when a person needs to handle a dog that is in pain. Most people are pretty forgiving about a bite that happens this way. They find it understandable that a dog in pain might lash...
Triggers and Underlying Causes of Dog Aggression: Part 8: Misreading Social Cues
The Misreading of Social Cues Can Lead To Dog Aggression People and dogs can both be guilty of misreading or being totally oblivious of each other’s social cues. Sometimes this is just a simple lack of clear communication but, in other cases, this can lead to an...