Sometimes we talk so much to our dogs that we make learning harder. In this episode of The Dog Gone Positive Way, I explore the beginning stages of training, capturing and shaping behavior, and when to start adding cues—with a special focus on teaching “down.”

With footage of Tony from about three months old through his first year, you’ll see his progress from early clicker training to learning cues for behaviors. I discuss observing what our dogs offer, marking and rewarding those moments, and giving them room to learn without a constant stream of chatter.

Next episode, we’ll take a closer look at shaping tricks, including how I taught Tony to wave by building the behavior one step at a time.

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We're going back to the early 2000s for a special throwback episode of The Dog Gone Positive Way!

In this throwback television interview on Daytime, airing on WFLA News Channel 8 out of Tampa Bay, we're talking about one of the biggest decisions you'll make as a future dog guardian: choosing the right dog for your home and lifestyle.

Should you get a puppy or an adult dog? What should you consider before bringing a dog home? And what do you really need to have ready?

We cover everything from choosing a dog and preparing for their arrival to essential supplies, leashes, training, doggy daycare, and setting your new companion up for success.

It's a fun look back at an earlier television appearance, with advice that's still relevant today. And you'll get to see my beloved Taloo, too!

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In this episode of The Dog Gone Positive Way, I examine the shocking animal-cruelty case involving a Connecticut woman accused of repeatedly using a shock collar on a caged dog. I also discuss the USDA’s newly announced plans to strengthen oversight of federally regulated dog breeders—and what those protections do and do not guarantee.

Finally, I explain how to find a truly evidence-based dog trainer, what professional credentials actually mean, and why owners should investigate a trainer’s methods before placing a dog in their care.

The Connecticut case remains pending, and the allegations have not resulted in a conviction.

Follow Dog Gone Positive Training for evidence-based training advice, industry news, and honest conversations about dog welfare.

In this episode of The Dog Gone Positive Way, I’m reviewing a training short from a balanced dog-training company that uses a shock collar as part of its training approach.

We’ll break down what’s happening in the video, why the dog’s behavior may look like “success,” and what we need to consider when punishment or discomfort is being used to change behavior.

Does a dog complying mean the dog understands what we want? What is the shock collar actually teaching? And could we accomplish the same training goal without using an aversive tool?

I’ll walk through what I see as a positive reinforcement dog trainer and explain why how we get the behavior matters just as much as the behavior itself.

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In the final part of my conversation with Peggy Frezon, author of Goodbye to a Good Dog, we discuss a deeply personal question many people face after losing a beloved pet: Should I get another dog—and how will I know when I’m ready?

There is no correct timeline and no single answer. Some people welcome another dog quickly, while others need more time or decide not to adopt again. A new dog can never replace the one you lost, but when the time feels right, they can open your heart to a new and entirely different relationship.

A heartfelt thank-you to Peggy for sharing her wisdom, faith, personal experiences, and compassion throughout this five-part series.

To learn more about Peggy, her books, or to contact her

Website: www.peggyfrezon.com

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Facebook www.facebook.com/peggyfrezon

Instagram www.instagram.com/pfrezon

You Tube - https://www.youtube.com/@GoodDog-frz

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How do we honor a beloved dog after they’re gone?

In Part 4 of my conversation with Peggy Frezon, author of Goodbye to a Good Dog, we explore the many meaningful ways people keep their pets’ memories alive. From photographs and memorials to sharing stories and continuing traditions, everyone finds their own personal way to remember the dog they loved.

Peggy also shares how her Christian faith brings her comfort and why she holds on to the hope that we may see our beloved pets again in heaven. It’s a heartfelt conversation about remembrance, faith, healing, and the love that remains with us long after we say goodbye.

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In Part 3 of my conversation with Peggy Frezon, author of Goodbye to a Good Dog, we discuss one of the most painful decisions a pet owner may ever face: knowing when it is time to say goodbye.

How can you tell whether your dog still has a good quality of life? Are the difficult days beginning to outnumber the good ones? We talk about recognizing changes in comfort, mobility, appetite, enjoyment, and everyday activities—and why you should not have to make this decision alone.

Your veterinarian can help you understand your pet’s condition, discuss available options, and work with you as a team. Although no one can remove the heartbreak, having honest conversations and reliable information can help you make a loving, informed decision based on your pet’s needs.

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My wheelchair repair nightmare continues. In Part 2, I took my chair to another medical equipment specialist who told me the problem was fixed. Unfortunately, it wasn't.

When you depend on a wheelchair every single day, a failed repair isn't a minor inconvenience—it affects your independence and your ability to function.

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