The VSA Blog
Steven Cogswell: A Theater Buff Goes to the Dogs
Steven Cogswell’s journey to becoming a professional dog trainer and animal welfare advocate has been anything but conventional.
From Classroom to Canines: Tomi’s Journey into Dog Training
A love of teaching and a challenging puppy named Betsy inspired this VSA graduate
The Value of Being a Dog Trainer During Uncertain Financial Times
The demand for dog training endures, even during turbulent times. Here are some reasons why…
Helping Dogs Cope with Change
Whether it’s losing a familiar home, a beloved family member, or even a simple routine, dogs can need our help bouncing back from life’s changes.
Considering Aggressive Behavior in Dogs
When positive dog trainers discuss aggressive behaviors like snarling, snapping, lunging, and biting, they choose words carefully.
When Normal Dog Behavior is Surprising
Meet a dozen different dogs and you could easily encounter a dozen different personalities, with each dog having their own quirks and style.
What Should We Teach Puppies First?
As dog professionals, we are often asked for tips about for training puppies. Where should we advise puppy guardians to start?
Considering Labels in Dog Training
Across the dog industry, it’s common to use labels to describe methods, practitioners, and philosophies. But what do those labels really mean?
Do Dogs Like Being Trained, or Are They Just Tolerating It?
Teaching and training can empower dogs with more confidence, safety, and opportunities to expand their horizons. But are they actually enjoying the process?As positive dog trainers, we teach dogs life skills that help them navigate their world with more ease,...
Making Accommodations When Training Senior Dogs
As dogs age, their needs change. Meeting those needs can require special considerations during private or class training sessions. Senior dogs may have physical limitations, cognitive decline, and different training and socialization needs compared to younger dogs....
