Make the Crate Inviting

• Comfort and Toys: Line the crate with safe bedding and durable toys. Offer high-value, long-lasting enrichment chews (like stuffed Kongs) exclusively inside the crate. (A word of caution, if you dog is unsupervised, be careful not to leave them with treats that could break off and become choking hazards.

• Meal Association: Feed all meals inside the crate, gradually moving the bowl to the back. Gently close the door during the meal, opening it immediately after your pup has finished eating and when you dog is calm.

• Treat Discovery: Toss high-value treats into the crate when the puppy isn’t looking to reinforce positive feelings.
• Play and Cuddle: Wherever the crate is located, spend time playing and cuddling near it. Throw toys in the crate so puppy can enter and leave with low pressure and fun.

• Avoid Punishment: Never use the crate as a penalty; this creates fear.

• Systematic Training: Use lures (treats/toys) to encourage entry. Start with the door open, then close it for just 1 to 5 seconds. Gradually increase the duration.

• Ignore Whining: Wait for a moment of silence before opening the door. We want calmness (a moment of settling) when we open the door.

• Practice Separation: Start by staying nearby – follow the no look, no talk, no touch rule. Then briefly step out of sight. Keep returns and releases calm. Use a calm, slow voice.

• House-Training Aid: The crate is invaluable when properly used, because dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area.

• Immediate Potty Breaks: Always take the puppy out immediately before crating and immediately after releasing them.

• Calm Exit: Only open the door once the puppy is calm and settles to reinforce relaxation.
• Stay Consistent: Don’t let puppy sleep with you in bed as it can cause backsliding.

Call a professional dog trainer or behavior specialist if crate training is disrupting your health, your pup demonstrates excessive separation anxiety, or crate training simply is not progressing for you.

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

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Understanding canine personality types, particularly your dog’s personality traits, is one of the most powerful tools you have for modifying your dog’s behavior, communicating clearly and guiding them with confidence. Everyday interactions—eye contact, touch, tone of voice, even your body language—can influence how a dog responds, so approaching each moment with awareness and purpose is essential. For dogs that struggle with human aggression, dog aggression, severe reactivity, or extreme fear of the world, awareness of this becomes even more important when working on behavior modification. These dogs require a balance of sensitivity and direct, structured guidance to help them safely assimilate into everyday life.

In this section, we’ll explore the next three canine personality types: Aggressive, Fear‑Biter, and The Sky Is Falling—each with its own challenges and training considerations.

Aggressive dogs are confident, assertive, and willing to use force when they feel it’s necessary. This personality is not tied to any specific breed. Some dogs become aggressive due to mistreatment, but many learn early on that intimidation works. Contributing factors include poor training, lack of leadership, weak communication, inadequate socialization, and genetics. Because these dogs can pose a danger to people and other animals, they represent a significant liability for families and communities. Professional help is essential. A qualified trainer must safely bring out and address the aggression before teaching the owner how to maintain control and prevent future incidents.

The Fear Biter Canine Personality

Fear biters are insecure dogs who react aggressively when cornered, threatened, or approached by someone who appears nervous. Their aggression is rooted in fear, not dominance. They often attack from behind or when a person turns away. Causes include lack of early socialization, no obedience foundation, mixed signals from owners, or breeding for protection without confidence. These dogs can be dangerous, especially around children or guests, and may lead to serious incidents. Training requires calm, structured obedience, gradual socialization, and zero tolerance for aggressive behavior. A muzzle may be necessary during early rehabilitation to ensure safety.

The sky is falling personality describes dogs raised in isolation or kennel environments with little exposure to people, places, or everyday life. They may function normally at home but become fearful, overwhelmed, or paranoid in unfamiliar settings. Causes include poor breeding, lack of socialization, being raised with multiple dogs instead of people, or being kept in isolation for long periods. These dogs may develop extreme anxiety or, in severe cases, unpredictable aggression. Training is challenging because they don’t initially understand praise or communication. They require gentle, consistent exposure and soft-force training to build confidence slowly over time.

Understanding these more complex canine personalities allows owners to approach training with clarity, confidence, and realistic expectations. Dogs struggling with aggression, fear, or extreme insecurity can make tremendous progress when guided with calm leadership, structure, and consistent communication. With the right approach, even the most challenging dogs can learn to feel safe, think clearly, and navigate the world more successfully.

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Call today to schedule your discussion with a trainer and begin training your Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

The post Your Dog’s Personality? – Canine Personality Types Part II appeared first on Kasten's Dog Training.

While every dog is an individual, many fall into recognizable behavioral categories. At Kasten’s Dog Training we focus on six canine personality types. These canine personalities are hyperactive, shy, happy-go-lucky, fear biter, aggressive, and the sky is falling. Understanding these personalities helps trainers create tailored approaches that bring out the best in each dog. Educating owners with their dog’s personality helps set realistic expectations. Learning your dog’s personality will help you train and communicate clearly and effectively. Let’s look at the three most popular canine personality types.

Happy-Go-Lucky dogs are easygoing, friendly, and cooperative during puppyhood, often learning basic obedience naturally. Because they are so pleasant early on, many owners delay training, which can lead to problems once adolescence hits. During this stage, these dogs may become distracted, independent, or selectively obedient. Causes include good genetics, strong early socialization, and sometimes simple luck. Training must be fun and enthusiastic, but taken seriously, with commands practiced in different environments and around distractions. Obedience should become a consistent part of daily life—not just a novelty or a game.

The Shy Canine Personality

Shy dogs are often genetically predisposed to insecurity and develop fearfulness outside familiar environments. They may be harmless but struggle with everyday sights, sounds, people, and new experiences. These dogs may develop separation anxiety, destructive chewing, submissive urination, or chronic nervousness. Training a shy dog requires calm, steady leadership and gradual exposure to new objects, sounds, surfaces, and people. Progress is slow but meaningful when approached with patience and consistency.

Common Causes:

• poor early socialization
• unintentional reinforcement of fearful behavior
• weak breeding practices

These dogs may develop:

• separation anxiety

• destructive chewing

• submissive urination

• chronic nervousness

Hyperactive dogs seem to have endless energy, short attention spans, and difficulty settling down. They often pull on the leash, struggle to focus, and remain active for long periods. This personality does not improve with age unless boundaries, communication, and obedience training are firmly in place. Genetics, overstimulation, poor habits encouraged by owners, and even diet can contribute. These dogs may display selective hearing, poor manners, and constant movement. Training must slow the dog down—using calm, structured obedience work and avoiding overly excited praise until the dog can think clearly and respond appropriately.

Understanding your dog’s canine personality type gives you the tools to train more effectively and support your dog’s growth. Behavior modification takes time and patients. As you work with your dog, remember that simple interactions—like eye contact, touch, or talking—can become a dog’s trigger point, so stay mindful and intentional in every activity. Stay tuned for part two!

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

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Sense of Security

A predictable routine and clear boundaries—the foundation of structure—provide your dog with a sense of security. Dogs thrive on knowing what to expect. This predictability reduces confusion and uncertainty, which are common sources of canine anxiety. A structured environment allows your dog to relax because they understand their place and what is expected of them within the household.

Having both structure and mental stimulation places your dog in a position for success. Consistent structure reinforces the lessons learned during training. When rules are applied reliably (e.g., specific mealtimes, designated potty breaks, and consistent command use), your dog learns faster and retains information better. Mental stimulation, through activities like puzzle toys or learning new tricks, keeps their brain engaged and receptive to new commands, making training sessions more effective and enjoyable for both of you.

Promotes Physical and Mental Health

Mental stimulation is just as vital as physical exercise. Boredom in dogs often leads unwanted behavior, but can also lead to stress, which can manifest as physical health issues over time. Challenging their minds with activities—such as scent work, interactive play, or enrichment toys—burns mental energy, tires them out constructively, and prevents the cognitive decline often associated with aging. A well-structured daily schedule that includes regular exercise and mental engagement supports a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Mental Stimulation Suggestions

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Practice impulse control (leave it and the “place” command)
• Tug with rules (sit, tug, drop it)
• Take a different route when walking
• Sensory box. Fill a box with various items and dump food in.
• Obstacle course. This can be done indoors or out, get creative!

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Give us a call to schedule your consult with a trainer and ask questions regarding improving structure and mental stimulation for your dog. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

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So Why Do They Lick? 

Dogs lick to show affection, communicate, explore their environment, or even to calm themselves. While occasional licking is normal, excessive licking in dogs may point to an underlying behavioral or medical issue. This guide explores the most common reasons behind dog licking behavior and when it may be time to seek professional help.

In most cases, licking is a behavioral habit rather than a medical concern. Dogs may lick themselves, furniture, other surfaces, or their owners.

Common behavioral reasons include:

• Boredom – Stress, or anxiety. Licking can release nervous energy.

• Self-soothing – Similar to how repetitive actions calm people, licking can comfort dogs.

• Affection – A “hello lick” is often a sign of love.

• Habit – Once established, licking can become routine.
• “Grooming” lick – Usually after sniffing your skin for a few moments.
• Exploration – Puppies use their tongues to investigate new things.

• Taste – Dogs may enjoy the salty taste of human skin.

• “Please Stop” lick – Falls within the context of being touched in a way a dog might find aversive; may be asking you politely to stop touching them.

If your dog’s licking leads to hot spots, hair loss, or skin irritation:

• Redirect their focus with toys, chews, or interactive games.

• Provide mental stimulation through training or puzzle feeders.

• Use positive reinforcement. Reward your dog when they stop licking on command (e.g., “Leave it”).

While less common, excessive licking can also signal an underlying medical issue. If your dog suddenly starts licking more than usual, or if the behavior is paired with skin changes, consult your veterinarian.

Possible medical causes include:

•  Allergies – Itchy skin or paws often lead to persistent licking.

• Infections – Bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections can cause irritation.

• Pain – Dogs may lick sore joints or injuries, much like humans rub an aching muscle.

• Gastrointestinal issues – Some dogs lick unusual surfaces when experiencing nausea or stomach discomfort.

If you notice excessive licking in dogs that results in skin damage, or if the behavior seems sudden and unusual, it’s best to consult a veterinarian. A professional can determine whether the cause is behavioral, medical, or a combination of both.

So, why do dogs lick? The answer depends on context. Occasional licking is usually harmless and even affectionate. But when licking becomes excessive, compulsive, or damaging, it’s time to take action. For behavioral licking, focus on redirection, enrichment, and training. For medical concerns, seek veterinary guidance. By understanding dog licking behavior, you can better support your pet’s health, happiness, and overall well-being.

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

The post Why Do Dogs Lick? Understanding Dog Licking Behavior appeared first on Kasten's Dog Training.

1. Establish a Consistent Schedule

Consistency is the single most important factor in successful house training. Your dog thrives on routine, and a predictable schedule helps them understand when and where they are supposed to eliminate.

• Wake Up/Bedtime: Take your dog out immediately upon waking up and just before bedtime. To increase your dog’s overnight success, remove food and water 1 – 2 hours prior to their last potty break.
• After Meals/Water: Puppies (and some adult dogs) need to go shortly after eating or drinking, typically within 30 to 60 minutes.
• After Play/Crating: Always take your dog out after extended periods of play, training, or after they have woken up from a nap or been released from their crate.

2. Supervise Closely and Learn the Signals

Direct supervision prevents accidents and gives you the opportunity to reinforce good behavior. When you cannot actively supervise your dog, they should be in a safe, confined area like a crate or playpen. The most common mistake new puppy owners make is too much freedom too soon.

• Watch for signs: Learn your dog’s pre-potty signals. This might include circling, pacing, sniffing the floor, whining, or sudden restlessness. The moment you see these signs, calmly and immediately take them outside.
• Use a Crate (If Applicable): A dog’s natural instinct is to avoid soiling their sleeping area. Use a crate that is just large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If the crate is too large, they may use one end as a bathroom.

3. Reward Success Immediately and Enthusiastically

Positive reinforcement is far more effective than punishment. When your dog has completed their elimination outside, reward them immediately—within seconds—so they associate the specific act (going potty outside) with the positive outcome (the treat and praise). Don’t praise with an excited voice in the middle of elimination as this can be disruptive to some dogs, depending on your intensity or excitement.

• Keep it Brief: The potty break itself should be business-focused. Save long walks and extensive playtime for after your puppy has eliminated.
• Never Punish Accidents: If you find an accident indoors, do not scold your dog. They cannot connect the punishment to the mess they made minutes or hours ago. Simply clean it thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the odor, which can attract them back to the same spot.

4. Choose a Designated Potty Spot

Designating a specific area outside for elimination helps your dog quickly recognize where they are expected to go.

• Lead with Scent: If possible, take a piece of soiled material (like a paper towel) and place it in the designated outdoor area. The scent can encourage them to go there.
• Use a Cue Word: Use a consistent, simple command like “Go Potty,” or “Do Business” just as your dog is about to eliminate. When they are successful, pair the cue with the immediate reward, affirming words or touch. This will eventually allow you to prompt them to go on command.

5. Be Patient and Manage Expectations

House training takes time, patience, and consistency, especially with young puppies or newly adopted adult dogs.

• Setbacks Happen: Expect accidents. They are normal parts of the learning process. Revert to increased supervision and a stricter schedule if setbacks occur.
• Age and Breed Matters: Younger puppies have less bladder control and will need to go out much more frequently than adult dogs. Similarly, smaller breeds often have smaller bladders and may need more frequent trips outside.
• Consult a Vet: If an adult dog suddenly starts having accidents after being reliably house trained, consult your veterinarian. This can be a sign of a urinary tract infection or another underlying medical issue.

Key Considerations for Successful House Training

• Don’t give too much freedom too soon.
• Establish a schedule that works for both you and your puppy.
• Don’t punish your puppy for accidents. If you catch your puppy in the act, scoop him up and say, “No. No. No.” Take him outside and praise eliminating outdoors.
• Be Patient! Your hard work in the beginning will pay off.

Contact Us Today!

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

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For Owners with Trained Dogs or Considering Training

Time with trainers in a neutral environment helps your dog learn new behaviors while removing the accidental reinforcement from our usual setting.

Things Your Dog Wants You to Know; Leading with a Dog’s Perspective

1. Your real work begins when we return. Bringing us home starts your job as a calm, fair, and consistent leader who reinforces boundaries and expectations daily.

2. We will test boundaries; be prepared. Indeed, we revert to old patterns unless every interaction becomes an opportunity to calmly reinforce leadership and the trainer’s methods.

3. Technique breakdown explains failures. If exercises fail, you quickly forgot that we are selfish creatures, visual learners, and live in the moment.

4. Trainers teach; owners implement. Here’s the thing, professionals can teach both of us, but only your sustained changes in interaction will produce lasting results.

5. Money buys training; leadership earns a lasting relationship. In reality, you can pay for a well-trained dog, but only loving, calm assertive, fair, and consistent leadership will make our relationship last.

Bringing It Home: Practical Leadership Habits

• Mind your timing: Reward or correct within seconds so the message lands.
• Be consistent: Use the same markers, cues, rewards, and corrections every time.
• Control intensity and tone: Calm, firm energy communicates leadership better than shouting or passive avoidance.
• Reinforce lessons at home: Continue the trainer’s routines and practice short, frequent sessions.
• View every interaction as training: Doors, greetings, mealtimes, and walks are opportunities to teach and reinforce boundaries.

Final Note

Leadership with dogs is practical, patient, and persistent. Lead clearly, consistently, and with calm confidence. Your leadership is the gift that turns training into trust and obedience.

Contact Us Today!

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

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Why Holidays Can Be Stressful for Dogs

Understanding your dog’s triggers is the first step to preventing holiday-related stress and behavior issues. 

Here are the most common stressors:

• Loud noises and fireworks: Sudden bangs and bursts can frighten even confident dogs.

• Overstimulation: Crowds, music, and constant activity can overwhelm sensitive or young dogs.

• Unwanted attention: Children and guests may hug, chase, or tease, leading to anxiety or defensive behavior.

How to Create a Safe Space for Your Dog During Holidays

If you can’t supervise your dog at all times, set up a calm retreat where they can relax away from the action.

• Use a crate or quiet room with familiar bedding, toys, and soothing background noise (like a TV or radio).

• Post a “Do Not Disturb” sign to prevent guests from entering.

• Maintain regular bathroom breaks so your dog doesn’t feel neglected.

Additional dog safety concerns during holiday celebrations:

• Food dangers: Chocolate, raisins, fatty scraps, and too many treats can cause digestive issues or poisoning.

• Open doors and pools: Unsupervised access can lead to escapes or accidents.
• Toxic/poisonous plants: holly, lilies, mistletoe, poinsettias, etc.

Teach Guests How to Greet Your Dog Politely

Not everyone knows how to interact with dogs. Help your guests avoid triggering stress or fear by sharing these simple rules:

• Avoid feeding from the table to prevent begging and protect your dog from harmful foods.

• Let the dog approach first—don’t force interaction.

• Greet with a calm voice and gentle strokes under the chin (never over the head or with hugs).

Fireworks and Loud Noises: Use These Tips to Help a Dog with Noise Anxiety

Even dogs that seem confident can be startled by fireworks or loud celebrations. Here’s how to help:

• Keep your dog indoors in a sound-buffered room with music or white noise.

• Offer a chew toy or treat to redirect their focus.

• Avoid comforting fearful behavior—it may unintentionally reinforce the fear.

Signs Your Dog Is Stressed During the Holidays

Watch for these common signs of canine stress:

• Excessive yawning or lip licking

• Hackles raised or tail stiff

• Submissive posture with tension

• Fixed staring or avoidance

• Lip curling or growling.

If you notice these, calmly remove your dog from the situation and give them a break in their safe space.

Final Thoughts: Safety and a Joyful Holiday for Your Dog

Your dog is part of the family—and just like any loved one, they deserve to feel safe and included during the holidays. With a little planning, clear boundaries, and thoughtful supervision, these holiday safety tips for dogs can help you create a festive environment that’s enjoyable for both humans and pets. So this year, don’t just plan for your guests—plan for your pup, too. Because a calm, happy dog makes for a truly joyful holiday season.

Contact Us Today!

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

The post Holiday Safety Tips for Dogs appeared first on Kasten's Dog Training.

Why Leadership Matters

Dogs are social animals, wired for structure, safety, and predictable cues. Leadership is clarity. And, leadership is not dominance, it’s a relationship. When you calmly lead with consistency, your dog relaxes, follows willingly, and becomes the steady companion you want them to be. Thus, leadership creates security; insecurity creates rules-testing and unwanted behavior.

Things Your Dog Wants You to Know; Leading with a Dog’s Perspective

1. We are dogs, not people. Despite human names, we interpret the world through scent, movement, tone, and environment rather than human concepts.

2. Leadership matters more than cookies, hugs, kisses, and cuddles. Really! We appreciate the cookies and cuddles, but what truly matters to us is having a leader to follow.

3. Love comes when leadership happens. Unconditional love is mutual, and leadership transforms that love into a relationship.

4. Respect our nature and come down to our level. Interact through body language, consistent routines, and clear signals that align with canine instincts.

5. Leadership creates calm followers. The more you convey steady leadership, the more secure and compliant we become within the boundaries you set.

6. Change your actions to change our reactions. We don’t understand ethical rules; we respond to how you behave and what you reinforce.

7. If you don’t lead, we will. If you do not lead, we will assume it and carry a burden we weren’t meant to bear.

8. Timing is everything. Ignoring a behavior or responding too late (2 seconds) signals that the behavior is acceptable.

9. Inconsistency confuses us. Mixed messages create anxiety and frustration; consistency creates clarity and trust, and then obedience.

10. When you provide leadership, I begin to trust you and obey!

Contact Us Today!

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we remain committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through practical training. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

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Why Basic Obedience Training Matters

As you may have already figured out, without basic obedience training, your dog can quickly become hard to manage. That said, it is imperative that you and your dog understand each other. Of course, that begins with teaching your dog to communicate and obey! Consider why basic obedience training matters.

Enhances Communication

Obedience training enhances communication between you and your dog. Commands like sit, stay, and come create a common language, making it easier to convey expectations and understand your dog’s needs.

Ensures Safety

Training commands such as come and stay can prevent dangerous situations. A well-trained dog is less likely to dart into traffic, confront other animals, or get lost. Obedience training ensures your dog responds promptly to commands, keeping them safe in various environments.

Improves Socialization

Basic obedience training promotes positive interactions with other dogs and people. A well-behaved dog is more confident and less likely to exhibit fear or aggression in social settings. This leads to more enjoyable walks, trips to the park, and visits with friends and family.

At-Home Training Methods

Training your dog begins in the home. At-home training paired with professional training is the most effective way to see results! That said, here are some of the best at-home training methods.

Consistent Commands

Use consistent commands and signals to teach basic obedience. Consistency helps your dog understand and remember what is expected. Stick to the same words and gestures to avoid confusion.

Positive Reinforcement

Reward good behavior with treats, praise, and affection. Positive reinforcement encourages your dog to repeat the desired behavior. For example, reward your dog when they sit on command or come when called.

Short, Frequent Sessions

Keep training sessions short and frequent. Dogs have limited attention spans, so short sessions of 5-10 minutes are more effective than long, repetitive training. Regular practice reinforces learning and maintains your dog’s interest.

Patience and Persistence

Training requires patience and persistence when it comes to correction. Celebrate small victories and progress. Ending each training session with success builds confidence.

How Professional Training Enhances Basic Obedience

Is at-home training not doing the trick? Here are the benefits that come with working with a professional!

Expert Guidance

Professional trainers provide expert guidance and techniques tailored to your dog’s unique needs. They can identify specific behavior issues and develop effective training plans.

Structured Programs

Enrolling in a structured training program ensures comprehensive learning. Programs like those at Kasten’s Dog Training cover essential commands and behaviors, offering a solid foundation for further training.

Socialization Opportunities

Group classes offered by professional trainers provide valuable socialization opportunities. Dogs learn to follow commands amidst distractions, enhancing their ability to behave well in different settings.

Why Choose Kasten’s Dog Training

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we understand the importance of basic obedience training for a well-behaved and happy dog. Our experienced trainers use positive reinforcement techniques to teach essential commands and address behavior issues. We offer a range of training programs, from basic obedience to advanced training, tailored to your dog’s needs.

Our training programs are designed to foster a positive relationship between you and your dog, ensuring effective communication and mutual understanding. Whether you prefer group classes or private lessons, we provide the support and expertise you need for successful training.

Contact Us Today!

At Kasten’s Dog Training, we are committed to helping you and your dog build a strong, positive relationship through effective training. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services so we can assist you in reaching your training goals!

The post The Importance of Basic Obedience Training for Dogs appeared first on Kasten's Dog Training.