Garrett and Bru - They're making such great progress. Bru wouldn't lay down on command when we first started and now his dad can tell him to lay down and walk away, trusting Bru to stay. Very proud of all the hard work they've put in and it shows in their regular day to day lives. #dogtraining #dogtrainer #dogsofsanjose #stopleashpulling #dogsoftiktok #ecollar #morganhill #perfectheel #balancedtraining #obedience #bestecollartraining

Some kind words from a fantastic client of mine. I'm very grateful to be able to help the community and save dogs at the same time. Training dogs has been my passion for as long as I can remember and will be forever. I'm glad to be a part of such a warm and dog friendly community. Dogs have the ability to bring us together, laugh together, learn together, and even inspire us to play together. #dogtraining #dogsoftiktok #stopleashpulling #ecollar #MorganHill #dogsofmorganhill #dogsofsanjose #dogs

Solo Sessions have been so much fun this week! Check out Hank, Naya, and Rufus with their progress so far! #MorganHill #SanJose #DogTraining #LeashManners #dogtrainer #obedience #dogobedience #leashreactivity #leashaggression #reactivedog #leashreactivity #dogtraining #bestdogtrainer #balancedtraining #prongcollar #ecollar #ecollartraining #minieducator #bestecollartraining #dogsoftiktok #rescourceguarding #perfectheel #stopleashpulling #leashpullingdog #dogtrainingtips #howtotrainadog

Huge thanks to @canine_concepts_ for doing such an amazing job grooming my girl, Banshee. If you have a dog and live within a million miles of Morgan Hill, CA I highly recommend taking your dog to them. They know how to handle all types of dogs, they're a mother/daughter team with other staff that are also great, and after talking to them they clearly live and breathe everything dog. It's so great to see other people making a living off of their passion and doing such a stellar job.

Amazing group classes today! Today was the first time I had to offer a second class because of how many people wanted to attend. I'm so grateful for the support and the opportunity that I'm given to help train and grow with all of these dogs and their owners. What a wonderful Sunday 😊

"We brought in Milo because he was reactive to dogs. It came to a head when we had an accident and he made my mom fall. We came to Jake and have had two private lessons and he's doing considerably better. This was our first group lesson and he did excellent. He's got more work to do as far as reactivity to dogs, but it's going to get more cemented with more group lessons. The first one was really great. We want to thank Jake, he does a great job, thank you so much!" Jacob & Milo

"In social gatherings he is aggressive, he has had other training before, but he still has ptsd from other dogs jumping on him… I’m glad we came today. Jake had different exercises, we were with another big dog like him, they sat together, they became friends, it was a beautiful moment. I’m so glad we came." Maggie & Richmond with Frisco, San Jose

"Home training... it's been a game changer" - Justin & Hilo, Morgan Hill, CA Change your relationship with your dog by reaching out today.

“Going to Jake has helped her house manners a lot" Charman & Azul, Morgan Hill, CA

Jessica and her wonderful family have a lot of great things to say about their first experience in one of my group classes that are every Sunday morning at 10am in Morgan Hill.

As a devoted dog trainer, my goal is to mend the bridges between dogs and their human counterparts, demolishing the obstacles hindering their relationship. In this case I helped Boba and his devoted mom. Watching a small dog conquer its separation anxiety and master potty training is a heartwarming journey. Through patient guidance and consistent routines, the once anxious pup learns to trust in moments of solitude, realizing that their human will return. Simultaneously, their potty training journey, marked by diligent training sessions and gentle encouragement, evolves from accidents to triumphs. Witnessing this transformation is a testament to the dog's resilience and the enduring bond between dog and owner, solidifying a harmonious partnership for years to come.

Discover the benefits of dog training group classes - an affordable way to instill basic obedience in your canine companion while ensuring they socialize safely. With expert guidance, a structured environment, and distractions for real-world learning, these classes offer an excellent balance of effective training and interactive fun. Your dog will thrive by interacting with other pups, building confidence, and developing proper social behavior. Whether you have a puppy needing foundational skills or an older dog with behavioral quirks, group classes cater to all ages and sizes, fostering a sense of community among pet owners. Invest in your furry friend's happiness and well-being without breaking the bank, all while making new friends along the way!

Along with a warm and loving home as a key element of being a good dog owner, knowing how to guide your dog through the world and their reactions to it is crucial in the difference between rescuing and saving a dog. This family is doing an amazing job with Chief thanks to their dedication and patience. They've done both private sessions and group classes with me now and are well on their way to having the skills needed to giving their reactive dog a much calmer and happier life.

Meet Seven, a spirited and boundary-pushing canine who has experienced a remarkable transformation through my dedicated training program. As a lively and adventurous female dog, Seven's exuberance often led her to trouble, especially when walking off leash. However, with consistent guidance and my advanced balanced training programs, Seven has grown to be a well-behaved and respectful companion. Her incredible journey showcases the impact of patient training, as she now effortlessly coexists with goats and horses, embodying the epitome of good behavior and proving that every dog, regardless of their initial tendencies, can blossom with the right approach and care.

Small group this week because of the heat, but we still managed to have a great time and get our dogs working on some impulse control. It's always a privilege helping my clients teach their dogs that it's ok to be comfortable in a distracting environment.

🐾📚 Thrilled to share the progress of this adorable puppy in one of my training programs! 🌟 They have come a long way in stopping nipping and mastering basic commands, setting the stage for a lifetime of wonderful experiences with their family. 🏡❤️ This process emphasizes that dogs, regardless of age, are always learning alongside their owners. 🐶🌈 With patience, clear boundaries, and consistent communication, we're navigating the path together, overcoming personal hurdles, and achieving balanced communication that fosters respect without being harsh. 🤝🐾 My dog training business is not just about training dogs; it's about empowering families to create harmonious relationships and embark on incredible adventures with their beloved furry companions. 🐕🌟 Let's celebrate the joy of progress and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for this amazing pup and their dedicated owners! 🎉💙 #PuppyTrainingProgress #LifelongLearning #HarmoniousRelationships #EndlessPossibilities

My dog training group class was an incredible experience that perfectly blended fun, education, and community-building. We embarked on a journey together, where not only did our furry companions learn valuable skills, but we also formed a tight-knit group of like-minded individuals. Amidst the joyful chaos of playful dogs, we witnessed remarkable transformations as our four-legged friends discovered the art of self-control and obedience. Despite their natural inclination to romp and play, they learned to listen attentively to their owners, even in the face of tantalizing distractions. It was an enriching experience that brought us closer as a community while fostering a strong bond between us and our beloved canines.

🐾📣 Heartwarming Transformation Alert! 📣🐾 🌟 Meet Chief: The Reactive Dog on a Journey to Inner Peace! 🌟 🐶🔗 Get ready for an inspiring tale of resilience and growth! Chief, the charming canine I've been privileged to work with, is making remarkable progress in overcoming his reactivity. 🐾😍 🌈🏋️‍♀️ As an independent dog trainer, I'm honored to witness Chief's transformation into a calmer, more obedient companion who brings joy to every member of his family. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 🐾💪 By employing balanced training methods rooted in trust-building and positive connections, we're helping Chief embrace peaceful moments and delightful interactions. Together, we're cultivating harmony within the family unit. 🐕❤️ 🌟💼 Being a passionate advocate for reactive dogs, my aim is to empower Chief and his family to lead a harmonious life together. I believe in the power of balance, prioritizing the well-being and happiness of every dog I work with. 🙌🏻💖 🐾✅ Join me in celebrating Chief's progress and discover the potential for triumph in your own dog's story. Together, we'll create a future filled with love, obedience, and countless tail wags. 🌟🐾 #DogTrainer #ReactiveDogs #Transformation #BalancedTraining #InspiringJourney #DogLovers

🐾 Meet Copper, a remarkable puppy who has embarked on a transformative journey from being barky and sceptical to becoming relaxed in any environment. Initially anxious and prone to barking at other dogs, Copper's dedicated training and loving owners have yielded remarkable results. Through exposure, rewarding calm behavior, and creating positive associations, Copper has blossomed into a confident and serene companion. Whether in bustling parks or lively social gatherings, Copper now navigates the world with ease and tranquility, showcasing the power of patience and consistent training in shaping a dog's behavior. 🐶❤️ It's been so fun training this pup and his owners! They are doing an absolutely incredible job with their homework and asking great questions in sessions. They have been doing private sessions with me, but I'm now offering group classes as well! Yay team Copper!! #TransformationTales #FromBarkyToRelaxed #PawsomeJourney #ConfidentCompanion #PositiveReinforcementWorks #TrainingWins #CopperTheCalmCanine #JourneyOfGrowth #TranquilPuppy #PatienceAndPersistence

Sharing a heartwarming success story of a once skittish dog who now radiates confidence! It's been incredible to witness the transformation of this furry friend, thanks to their dedicated owners. Finding the perfect balance of setting boundaries and providing gentle encouragement allowed them to work through their fears. As a passionate dog trainer, it's truly inspiring to see how patience, understanding, and clear communication can create such remarkable progress. If you're facing similar challenges with your beloved pup, feel free to reach out for insights and support from my own experiences. #DogTraining #ConfidentCanines #HarnessTheirPotential

🐾🌳🏠 Recently, I had the privilege of working with three beautiful German Shepherds and their devoted owner, helping them find joy in nature, navigate public spaces with ease, and create a harmonious environment at home. It has been an incredibly humbling experience to witness the transformation of these amazing dogs through patient and compassionate training, strengthening the bond between them and their owner. Utilizing positive reinforcement and the effective communication of balanced training methods, we have achieved remarkable results, enabling them to embrace the wonders of nature, enjoy outings in public, and find solace in the comfort of their own home. If you're seeking assistance in training your beloved furry companion, I'm here to offer expert guidance and tailored solutions, ready to embark on a journey of building a strong and lasting bond with your four-legged friend. Let's harness their full potential together! 🐶💖🌟 #DogTraining #HarmonyWithOurPets #HarnessTheirPotential

It has been so rewarding training Maverick and his owners! Maverick's family came to me when he started barking and lunging at other dogs while on walks. His family didn't know what to do to stop this and it caused them great distress. They were afraid of encountering other dogs because they knew Maverick would bark and pull. They said otherwise Mav is an amazing dog, it's just the reactivity on walks. With a few pointers and some practice Maverick's owners are now confident when encountering other dogs and Mav is much less anxious himself. The whole family is prepared to have a great, stress-free summer together.

Colugo and his owner can now go on walks without him freaking out at other dogs and his owner is much more confident in her own ability to control different situations! When I met Colugo not long ago he would freak out at the sight of another dog. It was so bad that it sounded like he was screaming. Now he is much happier and calm around other dogs. As a dog trainer this is one of my favorite kind of cases to work on because although it's unfortunate that Colugo was ever reactive in the first place, it feels amazing to teach him that the world isn't such a scary place, especially when you have people you can trust around you. Keep up the good work Colugo! #sanjosepuppies #sanjosedogtrainer #sanjose #morganhill #dogpictures #cute #behaviormodification

I just finished helping Leo and his family work on some basic obedience as well as puppy training. When we started just a few weeks ago he didn't really know anything besides maybe sit, but now he is doing great with all of the basics even in distracting environments. Seeing his family be so happy of the outcome is what keeps me motivated!

Hank went back to his family after 4 weeks of training with me! He went from a skittish rescue dog to a confident companion in just a few weeks time. I couldn't be more proud of his progress! No signs of aggression anymore and he also got pretty good at recall and down stay. #SanJose #sanjosedogtraining #sanjosedogrescue #sanjosecalifornia #sanjosedogwhisperer #sanjosedogwalking #board&train #privatetraining #socialization #sanjosedoglovers #sanjosedoggroomer #sanjosedoggrooming #sanjosepuppy #sanjosepuppies #morganhillca #morganhilldogduty #morganhilldogpark

Daphne is back home with her mom who couldn't be happier with the results of the board & train program. I'm always overjoyed to see the results of all the work I put in with the dogs that I train. Daphne now knows recall, leash manners, sit, down, place, leave it, place, and stay as well as no longer having the behavior issues she had before like barking at other dogs, nipping at hands, jumping, and chewing everything. Great job Daphne!!! #SanJose #sanjosedogtraining #sanjosedogrescue #sanjosecalifornia #sanjosedogwhisperer #sanjosedogwalking #board&train #privatetraining #socialization #sanjosedoglovers #sanjosedoggroomer #sanjosedoggrooming #sanjosepuppy #sanjosepuppies #morganhillca #morganhilldogduty #morganhilldogpark

Make life easier and train your dog with Harnessing Potential Dog Training! #SanJose #sanjosedogtraining #sanjosedogrescue #sanjosecalifornia #sanjosedogwhisperer #sanjosedogwalking #board&train #privatetraining #socialization #sanjosedoglovers #sanjosedoggroomer #sanjosedoggrooming #sanjosepuppy #sanjosepuppies #morganhillca #morganhilldogduty #morganhilldogpark

"A whole new dog" Buddy went home and his family was more than thrilled to finally be able to pet him, welcome guests in, and trust him around the grandkids. From killer to lap dog. #Dogtraining #dachshund #dogpictures #doge #cutedogs #happy #CuteDogsOfInstagram #cutepuppies #BayArea #SanJose #lovedogs

It's easy to train your dog! If you don't know where to start, that's where @harnessingpotential can help! #CuteDogsOfInstagram #dogboarding #dogpictures #Dogtraining #cutedogs #morganhill #woodside #LosGatos #Calofornia #bayarea #betterlife #happydog #happy #easy

Bergie, confident and photogenic! Two things anyone that knows her would be astonished to hear! Boarding with us for her severe skittishness, she has overcome many fears in just over a week! #Dogtraining #bayarea #homedepot #ford #trucks #cutedogsofinstagram #MorganHill #love #board&train #dogboarding #puppylove #wlWoodside #LosGatos

Super excited about the new board & train dogs, Finn and Bergie! Both are so young and full of #potential! It's going to be so great to teach them the necessary basics and how to behave! If you're like their owners and are craving an easier life and a happier dog then message us to help you and your dog! #DogTraining #Love #DogBehavior #CuteDogs #CuteDogsOfInstagram #Puppies #BoardAndTrain #AffordableDogTraining #BalancedDogTraining #SouthBay #BayArea #California #Woodside #LosGatos #MorganHill

Caution: the following picture may be too cute to handle. This chunky little guy is learning the place command and will learn so much more in the next few weeks. Look into our board & train program!! Call about our in-home consultations today!!! #DogTraining #Cute #Puppies #FunnyDogs #DogsOfInstagram #HarnessingPotential #SanJose #MorganHill #LosGatos #Woodside #Calofornia

Desensitization changes lives. Get your dog used to the situations they're anxious of. Make life better! #dog #dogs #dogsofinstagram #instadogs #igdogs #doggo #bestdogs #cutedog #funnydogs  #dogsarebetter #doggy #doglovers #uniquedogs #dogpics #petsagram #dogpictures #dogphotos #happydog #famousdogs #doggie #beautifuldogs #dogslife #doggylove #addorabledog #dogsbeingdogs #dogselfie #dogtreats #doglover #dogtraining #puppy

Desensitization is when you gradually introduce your dog to the thing that stresses or scares them. This process takes time, but the results are worth it! #dogtraining #doggomemes #doge #cutedog #dog #puppy #happydog #cutepuppy #puppylove #petco #cute #happy #fun #boardandtrain #sanjose

"It's what you practice in private that you will be rewarded for in public" - Tony Robbins #dog #dogsofinstagram #doggo #gooddog #cutedogs #cutedog #cute #cutepuppy #cutepuppies #doglover #puppylove #dogtraining #fun

Tahoe 😊 #doge #doglife #dogs_of_instagram #doggo #dogslife #doglover #dog #dogs #puppy #puppylove #puppiesofinstagram #tahoe #cute #cutedogs #cutedogsofinstagram #dogtraining

Yosie, our most current board & train dog is learning to behave herself around geese. other animals, and all types of distractions. We're so proud of her! For more information on how to get started with our board & train or other programs check out our website. The link is in our bio. #dogtraining #dog #Doggy #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #doggo #happydog #puppylove #harnessingpotential #cutedogsofinstagram

Even on Monday and a holiday, we show up to work on ourselves and help others work on themselves when they need it. That's the @harnessingpotential way! #Dog #Dogsofinstagram #Puppy #Dogs #Pet #Instadog #Dogstagram #Petstagram #Doglover #Dogoftheday #Puppylove #Doggo #Gooddog

Focus on your goals and achieve them. #Dog #Dogsofinstagram #Puppy #Dogs #Pet #Instadog #Dogstagram #Petstagram #Doglover #Dogoftheday #Puppylove #Doggo #Gooddog

Benny is doing so well! At the beginning of his board and train with me, he didn't even know how to stay on place for a second. Now he is staying in place in a new environment with a cat running around eating his food and me going behind a blind so he can't see me. Such an impressive boy! I love my job! #dog #dogsofinstagram #dogs #dogstagram #instadog #doglover #dogoftheday #ilovemydog #doglovers #doglife #dogsofinsta #doggy #dogs_of_instagram #doggo #lovedogs #rescuedog #instagramdogs #dogsofig #mydog #doglove #instadogs #cutedog #dogsofinstaworld #dogslife #happydog #rescuedogsofinstagram #dogsitting #cutedogs #lovemydog #dogphotography

Always test yourself to find your limits until there are none. #doge #doglife #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #doggo #happydog #dogtrainingadvice #cutepuppy #cutepuppies #nobaddogs #puppytraining #dogtraining #cutedog #rescuedogsofinstagram #rescueanimals #tiredpuppy #playdate #doglove #servicedog #sweetdog #animallover #cuteanimals #love #respect

Condition your dog out of biting you, your kids, your friends, and your furniture!!! #doge #doglife #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #doggo #happydog #dogtrainingadvice #cutepuppy #cutepuppies #nobaddogs #puppytraining #dogtraining #cutedog #rescuedogsofinstagram #rescueanimals #tiredpuppy #playdate #doglove #servicedog #sweetdog #animallover #cuteanimals #love #respect

If your dog doesn't listen to you in public, isn't food motivated, and overall doesn't seem very interested in you then hand magnet is going to be your favorite new tool! #doge #doglife #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #doggo #happydog #dogtrainingadvice #cutepuppy #cutepuppies #nobaddogs #puppytraining #dogtraining #cutedog #rescuedogsofinstagram #rescueanimals #tiredpuppy #playdate #doglove #servicedog #sweetdog #animallover #cuteanimals #love #respect

Is your dog reactive or even aggressive? Do they pull or bark at other dogs, other animals, or even people? Do you feel helpless about the situation? Does your dog cause more stress than comfort and happiness? Help your dog through their poor behaviors by desensitizing and counter conditioning. Any breed, any age, any behavior, any time 😊 #malinois #doglove #obedience #dogwalking #pets #rescuedog #dogtrainingadvice #of #dogmom #dogwalker #servicedog #dogtrainersofinstagram #dogboarding #pitbull #belgianmalinois #ilovemydog #pet #labrador #lovedogs #bordercollie #instadogs #cute #dogtricks #dogsofinstaworld #adoptdontshop #goldenretriever #puppylife #dogtrainingisfun #dogsofig

When you start training your dog, one of the first things you need to figure out is what kind of treats to use. Common dog treats that you buy at the pet store can be expensive and never last as long as you think they will. Your dog probably isn't even that motivated by them when there's a distraction passing by. The solution to this is to use vegan sausages mixed in with their regular food. At first you may need to use a higher ratio of the sausages in with the boring kibble, but this doesn't have to last long. Slowly decrease the amount of sausages that you're mixing in until your dog is listening just for their kibble and ultimately not needing treats at all to follow your lead. Dogs are attracted to meat, so the closest you get to the real thing the better. I'm a vegan and have had many vegan clients or clients that just don't purchase or consume beef so regular hot dogs are not an option for these people and myself. Before I was vegan I used regular hot dogs and it worked just as well and was a bit cheaper than the vegan stuff, but I don't trust the ingredients and means of production as much. #dog #dogsofinstagram #dogs #dogstagram #instadog #doglover #dogoftheday #ilovemydog #doglovers #doglife #dogsofinsta #doggy #dogs_of_instagram #doggo #lovedogs #rescuedog #instagramdogs #dogsofig #mydog #doglove #instadogs #cutedog #dogsofinstaworld #dogslife #happydog #rescuedogsofinstagram #dogsitting #cutedogs #lovemydog #dogphotography

Recall!!! Get your dog to check in with you when you want them to by following these tips. Long leash, find a distraction, "disappear", call the dog, reward or use the leash to correct the dog. #dogs #dogsofinstagram #dog #dogstagram #puppy #doglover #dogoftheday #instadog #doglovers #doglife #pets #love #puppylove #puppies #pet #puppiesofinstagram #dogsofinsta #cute #instagram #of #petsofinstagram #dogslife #doggo #animals #ilovemydog #cats #doglove #petstagram #dogphotography #cutedogs

Always working on eye contact and food motivation! (Ft. Minnie) #dogtraining #dog #doggy #doge #doggo #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #nobaddogs #focus #balance #puppy #happydog #puppylove #puppies #cutepuppies

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BANSHEE!!! She's 7 years old today! This crazy bitch and I have been through some shit together! Her litter was one of the first that I ever helped whelp when I first started working at the kennel she was born at. We have so many memories together! I've shown her in the #siegershow when she was a pup, when the boss was out of town I would let her roam the property freely and she would chase the quad runner if I was on it, I whelped her puppies, we moved out to California together from the Illinois flats and she used to eat shit every other step when we would hike in the mountains out here. Her prior owners that own the kennel she was born at knew she was my dog when they tried having someone else show her and Banshee came running back to me because she heard me laugh when I was at least a football fields length away. That was the day they said I could have her. There's so much more I could say about this dog! She helps me train dogs, she's my favorite dog to train with, she's taught me a lot about being a friend and a guardian. I'm so grateful for the timing that she came into my life. She helped me through some dark days and always made them brighter or at least made me upset about something else like her eating my notebook when I left her outside for 2 minutes without me. I love you Banshee!!! To many more years of our adventures together ❤❤❤😊🐕🥂

Teaching your dog place can help tremendously with conquering anxieties, like separation anxiety or barking at the doorbell. It's best to practice this in a controlled environment first and build distraction levels before trying it in "the real world" as I often say. Walk around your dog remembering to come back every so often to give a treat. At first you'll need to do less and reward more, but it won't take long until you are walking out of the room, watching a movie, coming back and seeing your dog in the same place where you left them. #dogtraining #dog #Doggy #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #doggo #happydog #puppy #puppylove #puppiesofinstagram #dogoftheday #cutepuppies #sanjose #california #germanshepherd #pitbull #belgianmalinois #BlackLab #goldenretriever #mastiff #adorable #love #sweetdog

Don't be afraid to take training at a slower pace! We all get so hung up on reaching goals asap, time is money, meeting deadlines as a sign of being good at what you do. This is so much pressure and in dog training, it isn't always the best way to think. Rome wasn't built in a day. Dogs are intense animals, but they still need our patience. With the right guidance, putting in the time, and tons of love the dog will eventually reach the goals you've made for them. If you rush them too much, you won't have as great of a relationship with them. You'll have an obedient dog that has anxiety, trust issues, and listens out of fear. If you don't know what you're doing, seek help. There are tons of trainers that are putting out incredible content that really walks you through how to do almost anything with your dog. Learning doesn't have to take too much time or money. Be patient, be consistent, be successful #dogtraining #dog #Doggy #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #animals #puppylove #belgianmalinois #dobbermann #germanshepherd #puppy #cutepuppy #dogtrainingtips #balancedtraining #positivereinforcement #california #sanjose #morganhill #happydog #doggo #doglife #love #happy #follow #tipoftheday

Eye contact will help keep your dog's attention on you no matter what's going on around them. #dogtraining #dog #cute #cutedog #cutedogs #cutedogsofinstagram #puppy #puppylife #puppylove #happydog #pets #petstagram #petsofinstagram #animals #doglover #dogoftheday #doge #doggo #doggy #germanshepherddog #germanshepherd #adoginthelife

With 4th of July just around the corner, I'd like to go over some effective practices you can do to help your dog if they are afraid of the fireworks. Practice getting them used to the sound before the 4th. Use a firework sound off of the internet and play it at a low volume and increase the volume until you start noticing your dog reacting in small ways like moving their head around. From there turn the volume down just until there are no more reactions from your dog. Do some basic obedience like eye contact, recall, sit, and lay down while the noise is playing. Once your dog is doing great with that you can turn the volume up a little and keep doing the same thing until your dog is completely desensitized to the sound at full blast. Last minute things that can help are creating a den for your dog in your house, being sure that the dog is micro chipped and has a tag with your phone number on it, keeping the dog with you or someone you trust that can help care for your dog, getting them tired before the fireworks start, leaving music or the tv on, and keeping the dog on leash with whoever is staying with them. If you haven't practiced with less distracting noises, I don't recommend using the 4th as an introduction to the desensitization process and expecting your dog to do very well with even the basic commands that they otherwise are really good at doing. #4thofjuly #dogsofinstaworld #cutedogs #gardening #germanshepherd #adoginthelife #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #doglover #puppiesofinstagram #dogoftheday #puppies #cutepuppy #puppylove #happydog #doggo #doglife #petstagram #petsofinstagram #dogtraining #dog #doggy

It's very common for dogs to get themselves into trouble because of a lack of impulse control. They chase the cat, run out the front door while you're bring in groceries, lunge after other dogs while on a walk, etc. I teach dogs impulse control by teaching them "place" and/or "implied stay". You build up their ability for those commands in a controlled environment and raise the stakes as they improve until eventually you're able to go to a very distracting environment and practice. This dog's biggest distraction is being around other dogs, so the dog park is naturally the best place to practice this. If you don't trust dog parks, I recommend going to one and practicing outside of the park so your dog can still see all of the dogs without having them running up on you. #happydog #doggo #doglife #doglover #dogsofinstagram #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #dogtraining #dog #doggy #germanshepherd #adoginthelife #puppylove #petsofinstagram #puppiesofinstagram #DogOfTheDay #dogsofinstaworld

Many dogs end up in shelters because their family doesn't know how to help them get over their anxieties and then at shelter the dog gets even more anxious and the cycle continues. This is not the pattern you need to go through with your anxious best friend. One of my favorite things to do to get started on helping anxious dogs is to run them through some agility routines. You don't need fancy equipment or to enter your dog into shows and competitions to do agility. You can go to the park and have them climb or jump up on anything that you see that would be safe for them to stand on. This will help build your dog's confidence and motivation for whatever you're using as a lure. #dogtraining #dog #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #happydog #doggo #doglife #germanshepherd #pets #love #lovemydog #cutedogs #petstagram #animals #cute #southbay #morganhill #california

If your dog nips at you to play even when you say stop, you should try this!!! The answer for this in the moment is to get your dog off of you and make them lay down. You can act mad or just being casual is fine too. If they keep getting up, put a leash on them and step on it so they can't get up until after they calm down. The best way to prevent your dog from nipping at you and ending that behavior is to teach them how to play with a toy in a structured way. Play with them then make them give you the toy, tell them to do a few commands, and then resume playing. They don't get to take the toy and leave. Use a leash if you need to. This helps them leave that there's a time to play and a time to behave and that could change very quickly. #germanshepherddog #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #doggo #happydog #dogsofinstaworld #dogtraining #puppy #puppylove #dog #dogs

Does your dog come to you when you call for them? Most accidents dog owners run into with their dogs are caused by a lack of recall. Recall is arguably the most important thing to teach your dog because it's not fun having a dog that you can't trust off leash. You can start by having treats or a toy with you, have the dog on leash, and stay in a controlled environment like your backyard or living room. Don't start from 20 feet away, just use your standard 6 foot leash for starters. Once you get that down start adding distance and distractions. If they don't come to you after the 2nd time you call, reel them towards you using the leash until they come the rest of them way. Once you trust them to do that for you even when you're around other dogs, people, or any other big distractions then you can try off leash from a short distance and build your way up again. #DogTraining #BayArea #DogLove #DogsLife #Pets #Animals #Cute #CuteDogs #Petstagram #Doggo #Dog #Dogs #Dogstagram #DogsOfInstagram #InstaDog #InstagramDogs #Pet #Petstagram #DogOfTheDay #DogLover #Dogs_of_Instagram #DogSitting #ILoveMyDog #LoveDogs #DogsAndPals #MyDog #DogsCorner #DogsOfIG #Doggy #Pitbull #BlackLab

This is the 100th week Harnessing Potential Dog Training's been in business 🎉🥳 I'm very grateful for all that this project brings to my life. It's been such a great mentor, provider, motivator, and platform for making new friends (both people and dogs). I could never thank everyone enough for all of the support I've received while trying to make it all work out. The list is endless but, @kacie_ventura6 thank you for reminding me to give myself breaks and for cooking and baking such amazing food that helps motivate me to take the breaks that you suggest. I also can't go without acknowledging my mom, who would've been 56 today. She was always my backbone and is still one of the main reasons why I push myself as much as I do to keep getting better. She taught me to live life to it's fullest so that when you're gone you leave behind as much positivity as possible. Thank you and rest easy. Okay, now back to work 😊 #milestones #moms #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #puppylove #happydog #doggo #doglife #doge #dogoftheday #germanshepherd #dogmom #motitavtion #rescuedog #girlfriend #cake

It was a great month with Ozzy! He came to me because he was aggressive towards dogs and people and now he is much more relaxed in social settings like at the dog park or walking downtown. His basic commands have improved tenfold and I hardly have to use a leash with him anymore. Before, he would pull the entire walk unless he was very familiar with the area. He will never stop learning and growing, but he has a much better chance at a happy life now. I couldn't be prouder of the little guy! #dogs #dogsofinstagram #dog #dogstagram #puppy #doglover #dogoftheday #instadog #doglovers #doglife #pets #love #puppylove #puppies #pet #puppiesofinstagram #dogsofinsta #cute #instagram #of #petsofinstagram #dogslife #doggo #animals #ilovemydog #cats #doglove #petstagram #dogphotography #cutedogs

This is Ozzy. He's with me because he's aggressive towards people and other dogs. He was just in doggy prison at the animal shelter for 10 days for biting a stranger's lip at the place his owners were trying to board him while they go on vacation. He's small, but that doesn't mean he shouldn't be taken seriously. Ozzy isn't a bad dog, there's no such thing as a bad dog. He just needs to learn that people and other dogs are nothing to get anxious about. #dogtraining #dog #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #animals #cute #cutedogs #petstagram #puppylove #happydog #doggo #doglife #doge #dogoftheday #southbay #morganhill #california #rescuedog #ilovedogs #instadog #dogs #puppy

Congratulations to Zues for graduating the 4 week board and train program last week! He went from knocking me and his family over from his excitement to being very well behaved, even in public. His family did a good job of being sure everyone got a turn to work with him, even their young son. There's always more I'd like to do with the dogs, but we all did our best and grew a lot from the experience. Good job Zues! #dogtraining #dog #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #happydog #doggo #doglife #germanshepherd #pets #love #lovemydog #cutedogs #petstagram #animals #cute #southbay #morganhill #california

I'm proud to have come this far and it's only just the beginning. Today it's just on a few shirts, tomorrow it's a symbol of hope and trust recognized everywhere. Harnessing Potential is about more than training dogs and keeping them in happy homes, although that would be enough on its own. It's about resolving issues through clear communication and consistency. Showing up says a lot, but it may be a waste of time using the wrong tools and methods. I appreciate the support all of you have given so far and I'm excited and confident that this is only the beginning of an extraordinary adventure. Merchandising, merchandising 👌😂 #dogtraining #doge #dogoftheday #doggo #doglife #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #southbay #california #morganhill #sanjose #happydog #spaceballs #love #cutedogs #obediencetraining #behavioraltraining #boardandtrain

One of the best places to take your dog to get used to being around people is @homedepot. Everyone there is busy trying to find the products they need for their projects that they don't interfere with the training and dogs need to get used to not always being the center of attention. The forklifts, the automatic doors, the garden section are all great non-human distractions for building your dog's confidence. #dogtraining #dog #cutedog #cutepuppy #homedepot #doglover #dogsofinstagram #doglove #workingdog #dogoftheday #doggo #happydog #dogslife #pets #dogtricks #dogmodel #dogmom #dogdad

Charlie's mom sent pictures of how she watches soccer 😂 This isn't a behavior I would be crazy about, but it's too funny to correct. Even a trained dog is still a dog and we should never forget that. Teach your dog to listen to you, but let them show their character. #dogtrainer #dogslife #puppylove #soccer #doggo #cutedogs #cutecatsofinstagram #dogsofinstagram #happydog #doge #california #sanjose #morganhill #cutepuppy #doglover #southbay #dogtraining #bayarea #doglife

It's been so much fun working with these three and their owners! All different ages and different needs. They were cracking me up the entire session with their different poses and begging for attention while I was explaining things to their owners. It's only been 2 sessions and we've worked through their leash pulling, dog reactivity, a few essential basic commands, and so much more. They're a funny bunch, but they can sure accomplish a lot when they focus. #hounddog #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogslife #pets #petsofinstagram #puppylove #puppylife #laugh #dogtrainer #dogtraining #dogtrainingtips #morganhill #sanjose #california #mondaymotivation #monday #mylife #dogsdaily #harnessingpotential #doggo #cutepuppy #happydog

This is Charlie, my newest board and train dog. She's a Doberman, German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois mix, so you already know that this dog is no joke when it comes to intensity and drive. She's here to learn leash manners and basic obedience so her owner can take her out. This dog is a great teacher of how no matter who your parents are or how much natural talent you have, if you don't aim yourself in the right direction and seek the help you need you never harness your potential. #harnessingpotential #dogtraining #dogtrainer #malinois #germanshepherddog #doberman #morganhill #sanjose #california #puppylove #happydog #doggo #doglife #doglover #dogsofinstagram #dogsdaily #cuteanimals #cutepuppy

This is my cat Harley. She has been incredibly loyal to me since I took her in. I've been inspired by @cesarsway and his macaw, Rio and their dancing together. I figured I would give training Harley a try, but I'm not much of a dancer so I taught her to do what I love to do instead (lay down). It becomes clearer every day how deep our connection is with this planet and other species that inhabit it. #betterpersonbetterplanet #doglover #catlover #animallover #dogslife #dogtrainer #german #cutecats #cutecatsofinstagram #cutedogs #cutedogsofinstagram #mondaymotivation #dance #southbay #communication #communicate #community #sanjose #california

Here's Rory! He may be little, but he likes to run the show. He lives with some pretty smart people who taught him to go to his bed whenever he hears the doorbell, but his dominance is an issue beyond their scope. Luckily there is a solution for handling dominant dogs no matter what the size or age and I'm glad to teach it. #dogtrainer #dogslife #puppylove #puppylife #communication #morganhill #california #southbay #park #dogsofinstagram #doglife #doglover dominant #alpha #beautiful #boss #bethechange #betheboss

Goosey bear doesn't want to pose for me. He's still getting used to the whole "listening" thing. #nobaddogs #retreiversofinstagram #labsofinstagram #gooddoggo #dogslife #dogtrainer #doge #dogsofinstagram #puppylove #morganhill #california #southbay

I love when businesses do this! Thanks @chewy #christmas #happyholidays #happynewyears #chewy #dogtraining #happydog #doglife #puppylove #doggo #doge #christmascards #california #southbay #dogsofinstagram #morganhill

They have such a bad reputation that really misrepresents the breed. Dogs are a reflection of the people in their lives. This dog, Hart, came to me for aggression issues, but I saw right away that he was just afraid of people. I trust his owners are good people, but he had severe anxiety around strangers. After I socialized him properly he became the best dog for cuddling that I've ever known. It's only a hard job when I have to give the dog back to their owner. #pitbulls #doglover #dogtraining #puppylove #southbay #dogsofinstagram #dogtrainingtips #happydog #pets #dogslife #cutedog

Board and training can do wonders for dogs with serious issues. This dog, Tasha (middle), had serious anxiety and by the end of the week she was the boss of the place. #dogtraining #cutedog #puppylove #germanshepherd #doglover #sanjose #morganhill #california #boardandtrain

A picture from a few weeks ago. This is Dior, my first board and train client. Very excited to transition into this new path for helping dogs adjust to coexisting with people. #dogtraining #dogsofinstagram #doglover #instadog #dogoftheday #dogo #puppylife

Started training this new dog, Jade! She was pulling her owner all over until I had her swap the harness for a fur saver (collar). Within 5 minutes she wasn't pulling anymore and was making great eye contact. #communication #doglife #doglovers #puppylove #dogtraining #bayarea #pitbulls #dogsofinstagram #happydog #doge #dogoftheday #dogo

Harnessing Potential Dog Training! This is Misha, a new dog that I'm training. She is only a few months old and already a very good listener. I love dogs like Misha! She's very present with handlers and wants to please them. Good girl, Misha! Contact me at 847-668-1468 or on here if you'd like your dog trained in private sessions or if you'd like to attend my group class on Saturday mornings for $20/dog. #doglife #germanshepherd #dogtraining #puppylove #happydog #doggo #communication #southbay #doglover

My newest client has a dog that's a perfect example of why we need to teach manners before we can even start thinking about training basics like sit and lay down. If a dog is always pulling away from you, you can't get them to listen to a basic command. #dogsofinstagram #obedience #dogtraining #doge #puppylove #doglife #doglover

Beach day with Banshee #dogtraining #doge #dog #dogsofinstagram #doglife #doglover #happydog #germanshepherd #obedience

Some days you don't get as far as you had hoped, but keep showing up and you'll get there. #dogtraining #dogsofinstagram #dog #dogs #obedience #doglover #doglovers #germanshepherd #puppylove #happydog #doggo #doglife

Two great dogs! Pudgie came in today for a little refresher and got plenty of time to play with Banshee. So much fun with these two! #playdate #dogtraining #dogtrainer #doge #communication #funinthesun #doglife #dogsofinstagram #doglovers #germanshepherd #puppylove #socialization #obedience #doggo #happydog

This Saturday (8/7/2021) I'll be hosting a group session at 9am-10am. Low cost, high value, and a lot of fun. We'll cover basics and how to introduce dogs to others. #dogtraining #groupclass #communication #southbay #basictraining #trainingday #value #fun #doge #saturdayvibes

After a long session on a hot day, Banshee and Ruby love to sit in the shade and pose for pictures. #models #beautiful #dogtraining #dog #trainingday #communication #doge #cutedogsofinstagram #cute #southbay #gmc

Harnessing Potential Dog Training appreciation. Being so busy with dog training and other daily tasks to keep the business lively and growing I notice I haven't taken much time to appreciate all of the help I've gotten lately. I'm grateful for all of my support team and stakeholders. One such member of my support team has gone above and beyond recently with helping me in almost all of my sessions. This said member is Banshee, my dog. I've known her for her entire life and it feels as if she's known me for my entire life as well. We've been by each others sides for a lot of good times and challenging times. Since starting a dog training business, aside from being a very easy dog to try new commands with, she has been extremely helpful with socializing other dogs, even when the other dog is showing signs of wanting to attack her. She and I both stay calm in such cases and take the necessary safety precautions in order to be helpful to the aggressive dog while still setting our own boundaries. I wouldn't have as much to offer my clients if Banshee wasn't in my life. Oh and Harley, the cat for being so helpful in Banshee's trainings. #dogtraining #dog #cat #love #appreciation #communication #community #Harness #Potential #thankful #germanshepherd

A successful socialization session between a young german shepherd and an older and trained one (Ms. Banshee) #cutedogs #gsd #germanshepherd #dogtraining #trainingday #justdoit #communication

Fun fact about dog training: most people teach lay and sit, but not stand. Stand is a very useful command that helps you get your dog in a mobile position. We cannot continue to leave stand out of training, it makes our requests for dogs too unclear. #dogtraining #dog #trainingday #funfacts #southbay #cutedogsofinstagram #work #communication #teachersofinstagram

If you wake up late, your future will be bright. #sleep #sleepydog #dogsofinstagram #dogtraining #southbay #california #tired #tiredpuppy #cute

"You going to finish that?" ~Everyone's dog ever #dogtrainer #petsofinstagram #food #dogsofinstagram #thatlookshegivesyou

Passing the Christmas tree with all my presents under it like #dog #pet #christmas #cutedog

Clients were asking me to teach them how to say no to that look... I couldn't help them

My dog's wicked smart

"Highly driven dog" doesn't mean you can't have a cat too. #dogtrainer #catdog #lazy #getoutofmybeddog