As a dog training company serving the Dallas-Fort Worth area, High 5 Dog Training has heard it all! We know that dog owners—whether they’re first-time puppy parents or experienced dog lovers—have plenty of questions when it comes to training. Below are some of the most popular questions people ask dog trainers. If you’ve got a question that’s not on this list, don’t worry—High 5 has answers for everything dog-related!
1. How do I stop my dog from pulling on the leash?
Leash pulling is one of the most common issues dog owners face. Dogs often get excited and want to explore, but it’s important to teach them to walk calmly by your side. We recommend starting with positive reinforcement when your dog walks properly. At High 5 Dog Training, we’ll teach you techniques like using treats, maintaining a steady pace, and proper corrections to stop leash pulling for good!
2. How do I potty train my dog?
Whether it’s a new puppy or a recently adopted adult dog, house training can be tricky. Consistency is key, and we recommend a routine with regular potty breaks, especially after meals or naps. Crate training can also be a helpful tool for housebreaking. High 5 can guide you through the process, troubleshoot any setbacks, and offer tips on how to create a positive potty training experience!
3. How do I stop my dog from barking too much?
Excessive barking can drive you (and your neighbors) crazy! It’s important to understand the reason behind the barking—whether it’s due to excitement, boredom, fear, or something else. Once the cause is identified, we can work on redirecting the behavior with commands, rewards for quiet moments, and ensuring your dog gets enough mental and physical stimulation. Our trainers at High 5 can help you determine the root cause and create a custom plan to manage excessive barking.
4. What’s the best way to stop my dog from jumping on people?
Jumping is a common issue, especially in social dogs who are excited to greet people. While it’s a natural behavior, it’s important to teach your dog that all four paws should stay on the ground. We recommend ignoring the behavior (no petting or attention) and rewarding your dog when they greet people calmly. At High 5, we work with dogs on proper greeting behavior, so they stay polite and don’t overwhelm guests.
5. How do I deal with separation anxiety?
Separation anxiety is a tough challenge, but it’s not impossible to manage! It’s important to gradually teach your dog that being alone is okay. Start by leaving your dog for short periods and build up to longer stretches of time. Crate training, enrichment toys, and calming techniques can help, and in severe cases, professional intervention may be necessary. High 5 Dog Training has experience helping dogs overcome separation anxiety so they can feel confident when you’re away.
6. What’s the best age to start training my puppy?
Many people wonder if it’s too early to start training, but the answer is: the sooner, the better! You can begin basic training with puppies as young as 8 weeks old. At High 5, we offer puppy programs that focus on key foundational skills like socialization, potty training, and basic commands, giving your puppy the best start in life!
7. How do I stop my dog from chewing on everything?
Puppies and even adult dogs often chew because they’re teething, bored, or anxious. It’s important to provide appropriate chew toys and redirect your dog’s attention to them when they start chewing on furniture or other household items. High 5 Dog Training can help you manage destructive chewing and provide strategies to keep your dog engaged and satisfied.
8. How long will it take to train my dog?
The answer depends on the dog and the goals you have! Some dogs pick up basic commands in just a few weeks, while others need more time to work on behavioral issues. At High 5 Dog Training, we offer customized training plans based on your dog’s breed, age, personality, and specific training needs. We’ll give you a clear timeline and update you on your dog’s progress every step of the way.
9. Why won’t my dog come when I call?
Reliable recall is one of the most important commands, but it’s also one that many dogs struggle with, especially in distracting environments. Teaching a solid recall takes practice and consistency, and it’s crucial to make sure your dog associates coming when called with positive outcomes—like treats or playtime. High 5 Dog Training can help you master recall training so your dog comes running every time, no matter what distractions are around!
10. How can I stop my dog from being aggressive?
Aggression in dogs can stem from fear, anxiety, or a lack of proper socialization, and it’s important to address it carefully. Aggression may manifest as growling, snapping, or lunging. At High 5 Dog Training, we assess each dog’s unique situation and develop a behavior modification plan to address aggression in a safe, controlled way. Our trainers have experience dealing with reactive dogs, and we’ll work with you to improve your dog’s confidence and behavior.
11. What’s the best way to train my dog off-leash?
Off-leash training requires a strong foundation in obedience and recall. It’s critical that your dog consistently responds to your commands before going off-leash in open spaces. At High 5, we can guide you through off-leash training, starting in a secure environment and gradually increasing the level of distraction. We’ll ensure your dog is responsive and focused even in exciting situations.
12. How can I stop resource guarding?
Resource guarding occurs when a dog becomes possessive over food, toys, or other objects. To stop this behavior, we work on desensitizing your dog and teaching them to associate your presence (and commands) with positive outcomes. At High 5 Dog Training, we’ve successfully helped many dogs overcome resource guarding through consistent, positive reinforcement methods.
Have More Questions?
These are just a few of the most common questions we get, but we know that each dog (and owner) is unique! At High 5 Dog Training, serving the entire Dallas-Fort Worth area, we are dedicated to answering all your questions and providing the guidance you need to have a well-trained, happy dog.
Got a question? High 5 has the answer—and we’re ready to help you and your dog start on the path to success!
🐾 Call us today and let’s get started! 🐾