Communication and Communicating With Your Puppy Building a strong bond with your puppy starts with clear communication and firm boundaries. During the first several weeks, focus on the rule of prevent and distract rather than letting your puppy think their name is No. By managing their environment and using positive interruptions like a clap or […]
Understanding Puppy Stress Signals and Solutions
Managing Stress and Fear in Your Puppy Puppies communicate through many stress signals like trembling, avoidance, pacing, whining, and barking. Watch for physical signs such as lip-licking, yawning, panting, a tucked tail, whale eye, or growling. It is important to distinguish these from being tired; a stressed puppy yawns or licks their lips even when […]
Essential Puppy Training: 5-Week Roadmap
Comprehensive Puppy Roadmap: Weeks 1-5 Based on the “Raising the Empowered Puppy” curriculum by Jeanette Forrey I send every puppy home with a checklist based on Jeanette Forrey’s system. In my experience, you simply cannot find a better way to raise a dog. It is a “bomb-proof” system that keeps new owners on the right […]
Puppy Care Checklist for New Owners
Weekly Success Checklist: Week One Based on the curriculum by Jeanette Forrey (Badass Breeder) This schedule is designed to help you and your puppy find your rhythm during your first week together. By following these steps, you are building a foundation of trust and respect. The Golden Rule: Protect the Immune System Your puppy is […]
Engaging Brain Games for Your Puppy
Brain Games and Getting Your Puppy’s Attention A smart puppy needs to stay busy! Keeping your Great Dane’s mind engaged is just as important as physical exercise. If they don’t have a job to do, they will find one—and you might not like the one they pick! Communication and Recall I have already started teaching […]
Effective Crate and Potty Training Tips for Puppies
Crate and Potty Training: A Partnership The Transition from My Home to Yours At my home, the puppies have had the benefit of a doggie door, meaning they are used to taking themselves out whenever they feel the urge. When they get to your home, they have to learn a new way of communicating. They […]
Building Trust with Your Great Dane: Key Communication Tips
Communication, Handling, and Respect Building a strong bond with your Great Dane starts with clear communication. By learning to read your puppy’s signals and handling them with care, you establish a foundation of trust that will last a lifetime. The Foundation I Have Built From the minute your puppy was born, I have been handling […]
Puppy Training: Stopping Mouthing and Jumping
Managing Mouthing and Jumping Mouthing and Nipping: Setting Boundaries Early Puppy biting and mouthing are common challenges, but with a giant breed like a Great Dane, you must address this immediately. What is mouthy now will be a serious problem when your dog weighs 100 pounds or more. Avoid Rough Play It may be tempting […]
Gradual Socialization for Happy Puppies
Socialization: Use It or Lose It As a breeder, I put an immense amount of work into your puppy before they ever leave my home. I use the Empowered Breeder program to introduce them to different sounds, textures, and experiences to build a foundation of bravery. However, it is vital to remember that socialization is […]
Preparing for Puppy to Go Home: Pre and Post Arrival
Preparing for Puppy to Go Home: Pre and Post Arrival Puppy Proofing (Before Puppy Comes Home) Before you bring your puppy home, ensure your house is safe. Secure all electrical wires, remove toxic plants, and install gates to block off specific sections. Use latches on cabinets to keep cleaning supplies out of reach and ensure […]