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1 Tip, 1 Idea, 1 Quote.

On just watching

Dog Trainer Auckland

December 30, 2025

1 Tip - on life with your dog

If you have a new puppy or dog, one of the most valuable skills you can teach them is to be able to watch the world go by calmly without needing to react or interact.

Hang out in different places with your pup (or dog)....at the park, outside the supermarket, away from the foot traffic, a cafe. Let them watch and reward calm behaviour, and focus on you. The time you spend doing this will repay you a thousand times during your life with your pup....I promise!

1 Idea - on the leading edge

Socialisation is horribly misnamed and leads many new puppy owners down the wrong path of too much interaction and not enough detachment. Socialisation is learning about normal day-to-day life; becoming used to the sights, smells, sounds and experiences around us. Learning the world goes on around us and doesn't always require a response. What it's not about is interacting with every person and dog we meet.

1 Quote - on dogs

People get a dog because they want a friend. People hire a dog trainer because they don’t want their friend to be an asshole. Chad Makin

Need quick advice? My 'Ask a Question' page is live - Try it.

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