As many of you know, I'm not a big fan of dog parks. Really, it's not that I don't like dog parks, or the idea of them. What I don't like is how dog parks are misused and can create a hazard for you and your dogs.

So let's look at it: The good, the bad, and the ugly of the dog park scene.

Well, I've written about the Aesop's Fable about The Tortoise & the Hare, and how it relates to dog training.

How about "The Little Boy who cried Wolf"?

Anytime I get the same question from several different clients, I know it's time for a new blog entry!

So, how DO you choose a good Doggy Daycare? There's a lot to consider besides the obvious questions of location and cost. Remember, this is where you are planning on leaving your dog for the day or longer, if it's also a boarding kennel. Choosing a daycare that meets your needs and keeps your dog safe is as important as choosing a school for your children.

As the holidays approach, it's always a good idea to keep your pets' safety in mind.

We all know the story of the tortoise and the hare.

The hare is obviously much faster than the tortoise, so he's guaranteed to win the race. Ah, but that rabbit is so sure of himself, he wastes most of his time dilly-dallying while the slow tortoise plods on methodically. Finally, the rabbit is so far behind he can never catch up. In the end, the patience and perseverance of the methodical tortoise win out.

So, what does it have to do with you and your dogs?

Actually, this classic fable applies to dog training quite a bit, as it turns out.

The whippets and I spent the weekend in Pueblo, CO at the Southern Colorado Kennel Club show. The weather held out okay for us, and the whips had a fabulous time running around in my parents' backyard. They thought crunching the leaves, and chasing squirrels was pretty cool.

This was the first time I've taken all four dogs at once to the same show. To say the least, it was a bit daunting. I felt a little like the 'Dog Whisperer' as I trotted 4 dogs at once into and out of the Sate Fair Grounds Events Center.

I mostly want this blog to be about general dog training tips, ideas, and observations I make on a day-to-day basis as a dog trainer.

But once in a while, I have to share a personal triumph.

Have you ever tried to go on a hike in the mountains wearing flip flops?

What about going swimming in a goose-down jacket, ski boots, and a snow suit?

It's that time of year again, Folks.

Halloween can be a stressful, or even dangerous time for your dogs. Keep the following tips in mind this year to help keep them safe:

I am your dog, and I have a little something I'd like to whisper in your ear. I know that you humans lead busy lives. Some have to work, some have children to raise. It always seems like you are running here and running there, often much too fast, often never noticing the truly grand things in life.

Sooooo...

Let's talk about muzzles.

Yes. You read that right. Ugghhh. The dreaded "M" word.