Why we care so much about treats in dog training At Ducktown Lodge, we talk about dog treats for training a lot. Not because snacks are fun or trendy, but because the right reward can change how a dog feels about learning. Treats are information. They tell a dog that the choice
Growing up with dogs can be one of the most meaningful experiences of childhood, especially when dog training for families is part of the foundation. When kids and dogs are introduced with care, structure, and respect, the relationship becomes safer, calmer, and deeply rewarding for everyone involved. For families across
It Usually Starts With the Same Concern: “My Dog Pulls on Leash” Flat collar dog training is one of the first things we pay attention to when new dogs arrive at Ducktown Lodge. There’s a moment that happens almost every time. We clip the leash on and start the short walk
AKC Breeder Insight: Why We Raise Our Puppies With Crates From Day One As an AKC breeder, we have raised many puppies over the years, and every one of them is introduced to a crate early. Not as confinement. Not as punishment. As a tool for safety, rest, and emotional
Meet Snickers – A Ducktown Dog Training Graduate Training rescue dogs works best when we slow things down and lead with calm. Not because dogs need less guidance, but because they need safety before they can learn. Slow does not mean permissive. Calm does not mean weak. When structure is
Dog training with distractions is where most well-meaning training programs fall apart. Not because dogs are stubborn. Not because they “know better and choose not to listen.” But because they were never taught how to think when pressure shows up. The 3 D’s form the foundation of dog training, but
A board and train program can create meaningful change, but what happens after pickup matters just as much. Dogs do not automatically understand that skills learned in a calm, structured environment should carry over to home, walks, and daily life. A dog training take-home lesson helps owners continue training after
Finding Steady Ground During Your Dog’s Teenage Season Adolescent dog behavior 101. When dogs move into adolescence, many owners feel blindsided by the sudden shift in behavior. At Ducktown Lodge, we see this “teenage stage” every day, and we want you to know something important. Nothing is wrong with your
Let’s Talk About the Reality of Dog Training The most rewarding part of dog training is watching both dogs and their people grow together. But it’s also where the real work begins. Training isn’t just about what happens during the program—it’s about what comes next. When owners stay involved and
5 Tips: Dog Obedience Classes Are the Most Important Part After a Board-and-Train Program Board & Train Program – Cumming, Ga Completing a board-and-train program is just the beginning. The real transformation happens when you commit to consistent dog obedience classes afterward. These classes are where owners learn how to
