The American Kennel Club has added the STAR puppy level to its Canine Good Citizen program. This rewards owners whose puppies have completed at least a six-week basic training class. STAR stands for socialization, training, activity, and a responsible owner-...

The golden retriever originated in Scotland in the late 1800’s by Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth and other British lords wanted a dog that was not only an effective hunting dog, but also one that was pleasure to watch. The first golden retriever was a cross of a yellow...

The influences in the early life of a Golden puppy have a definite effect on his behavior as an adult dog. Although inheritance may predispose him to particularly behavioral traits, the environment plays a more vital role in his development and motivation. Therefore,...

This is really a great trick to teach your dog. First, your dog should view his crate as a “safe place.” A place to go when he’s tired, to take a nap or to just be left alone. Here is the fastest and easiest way to teach your dog to get in his crate, on command. It’s...

Here’s one thing we can all agree on. Our lives are filled with stress. The pace of our lives alone is brutal, and we worry about everything. So is it any wonder that our dogs are stressed out, too? The truth is, our dogs pick up on our emotions and react to the chaos...

Obesity, the most common canine nutrition-related health problem, can lead to the development or worsening of serious diseases, such as diabetes, liver disease, or pancreatis. It can also aggravate pre-existing joint problems such as hip dysphasia. Excessive canine...

Lack of adequate exercise is the root of dog problems. Physical activity burns your dogs excess energy and helps maintain a healthy state of mind. This is important, in order to talk to the mind, you need to remove the energy from the body. Walking exercises your...

I am sure you have already spent a lot of time finding your puppy the right food, treats, toys, bed and all other accessories needed. Now that your puppy is pre-spoiled and has a safe warm place to live, you need to focus on being a strong pack leader. Puppies will...

The world is vast and wondrous to a young puppy. Everything is new, and each day brings fresh sights, sound and smells. A pup’s first six months are the prime time for her to learn about the world, and during those early months, durable impressions and beliefs grow....

Its easier to prevent bad behavior, such as unwanted chewing or jumping up, than it is to correct, so be consistent with the rules from the moment you get your Golden. If not properly socialized, managed and trained, potentially perfect Golden Retrievers can be guilty...

Are you Alpha? Do you plead with your dog to behave? Does your dog walk you all over the neighborhood? Do you bribe your dog with treats? Does your dog chew on your furniture? Why? Dogs are animals, they respond to calm, assertive leadership, NOT to emotional...

A dog or puppy is either housebroken or not. If your dog is sneaking off into another room and having an accident, you will have to take some of his freedom away until you can solve the problem. The longer you allow this type of behavior to exist, the harder it will...