What is it Like Owning a Deaf Dog?

It is important to remember that a deaf dog can do just about everything a hearing dog can! The only difference is that you communicate through hand signals and body language versus a verbal command.  They play with toys, go for walks, give cuddles, do obedience training, and everything in between! First, we will talk about how deafness occurs in dogs. Like with humans, deafness can be hereditary and present at birth.  Other times, deafness can be caused by a … Read More

My Dog Growled At Me

Nothing quite gets your attention like hearing the grumbling of a dog’s growl. However, is that growl out of excitement, fear, anxiety, or something else in their environment?  Dogs use growling as an effective way of communication in all of those scenarios.  The key is being able to identify between a playful growl and an aggressive one.   You should never punish your dog for growling. Growling is an essential part of a dog’s language.  When dogs growl, they are … Read More

The Importance of Crate and Confinement Training

Wags & Wiggles is seeing a massive surge of private lesson requests for crate training. Crate training is an essential tool for both the dog and owner. We all knew this was coming. But, unfortunately, dog owners have forgotten the value of teaching their dogs to be comfortable being restrained, confined, or resting in a crate. Some of these dogs are ending up in rescue. Their new owners now face the challenge of teaching their dogs this important life skill. … Read More

Preparing For Your Puppy’s First Day of Dog Daycare

In current times, preparing your puppy for their first day at dog daycare may take some advance planning. Whether your dog is a young puppy just starting to explore or a middle-aged dog who has been spending more time at home this past year, it is important to make sure your dog is comfortable socializing, playing, and relaxing in daycare. Many dog daycare facilities are busy right now socializing covid puppies using both daycare and training. The first step to … Read More