Should I Allow My Puppy to Sniff on Walks?

In this Ask Cindy Q and A, Ed reads a viewer’s question about a skittish dog who hesitates when being called to have his leash put on. The owner has been using the recall command to bring the dog over, but the hesitation and slow response raised concerns about whether corrections or adjustments were needed. Cindy explains why it’s best not to use a formal recall command in this situation, and instead teaches viewers how to create a positive association with leashing up by using a new verbal cue, pairing it with rewards, and practicing inside without the added stress of going outside every time. She also shares tips for helping nervous dogs build confidence and avoid rehearsing avoidance behaviors, like hiding under furniture. | Links mentioned: Getting Started with Reward Based Training Bundle - https://leerburg.com/reward-based-training-bundle.php

In this episode, we break down the key differences between Leerburg Prong Collars and Herm Sprenger Prong Collars. From materials and craftsmanship to design and functionality, you’ll see what sets each brand apart and what is the same. This video will help you determine which option may be the best fit for your dog’s training.| Links mentioned: Leerburg Stainless Steel Prong Collar: https://leerburg.com/leerburg-prong-collar-stainless.php | Leerburg Quick Release Prong Collar: https://leerburg.com/quick-release-prong-collar.php | Herm Sprenger Stainless Steel Prong Collar: https://leerburg.com/hermsprenger_stainlesssteel_prongcollars.htm | Herm Sprenger Small Prong Quick Release Collar: https://leerburg.com/smallprong-easysnap-kit.php

Does your Schutzhund-trained dog bark excessively outside the training field? In this video, Cindy answers a common question from a GSD owner: How can I stop my dog from barking at strangers and other dogs without ruining her protection work? Learn why this behavior is often a sign of reactivity, not aggression, and how to manage it without affecting your dog’s drive and performance in IGP. Cindy shares practical tips for leash walking, car rides, and at-home management, plus a resource that covers effective reactivity training. If your working dog struggles with barking in everyday situations, this advice will help you create balance without sacrificing success in the sport. | Links mentioned: Leash Reactivity and Loose Leash Walking Bundle - https://leerburg.com/leash-skills-bundle.php

In this Ask Cindy Q and A, we answer an important question from a Rottweiler puppy owner: Does jumping in and out of the car affect a puppy’s bone development? Cindy explains how repetitive impact can impact growth plates and joints in large breed puppies, and shares practical tips for minimizing wear and tear throughout your dog’s life. If you own a large breed puppy or travel frequently with your dog, this advice is essential for long-term joint health. | Links mentioned: Getting Started With Your New Puppy Bundle - https://leerburg.com/puppy-bundle.php

Bringing an adult dog into your home and need help getting started with training? This course bundle is designed for dog owners who want to build reliable obedience and create a better relationship with their dog—no matter their age or background. It includes four of our most essential online obedience courses for adult dogs—plus a practical slip lead to help you apply what you learn right away. | Links mentioned: Basic Obedience for Adult Dogs Bundle - https://leerburg.com/basic-obed-bundle.php

In this video, Ed Frawley shares a video clip from our new online course, Sport Skills Master Class with Michael Ellis. In this clip, Michael addresses how to teach fronts to your dog for competitive retrieves.| Links mentioned: Sport Skills Master Class with Michael Ellis - https://university.leerburg.com/Catalog/viewCourse/cid/241

In this Ask Cindy Q and A, Ed shares answers to a common question: Should you let your puppy sniff on walks? Learn the benefits of sniffing, how it impacts training, and when it’s okay to set boundaries. Perfect advice for new puppy owners looking to balance structure and fun on walks. | Links mentioned: Leash Reactivity and Loose Leash Walking Bundle - https://leerburg.com/leash-skills-bundle.php

Just brought home a new puppy and not sure where to start? This course bundle is designed for brand-new dog owners and first-time trainers who want to build a strong foundation. It includes four of our most essential puppy training online courses—plus two must-have training tools to help you put what you learn into practice right away. | Links mentioned: Getting Started With Your New Puppy Bundle - https://leerburg.com/puppy-bundle.php

In this episode, Ed Frawley shares a question from the Ask Cindy database. Today's question is about dogs that have weak nerves around slippery surface. Ed addresses what he thinks is the root cause of this issue and offers advice testing puppies for it. | Links mentioned: Have a Dog Training Question? Ask Cindy - https://leerburg.com/qa/contact-cindy.php

In this video, Ed Frawley shares a video clip from our new online course, Sport Skills Master Class with Michael Ellis. In this clip, Michael addresses how to teach turning to your dog in competitive heeling using foot targets. | Links mentioned: Sport Skills Master Class with Michael Ellis: https://university.leerburg.com/Catalog/viewCourse/cid/241 | Remote Collar Master Class with Michael Ellis: https://university.leerburg.com/Catalog/viewCourse/cid/238 | Michael Ellis 2-Week Protection Class - Part 1 (18 Hours): https://university.leerburg.com/Catalog/viewCourse/cid/229 | Michael Ellis 2-Week Protection Class - Part 2 (25 Hours): https://university.leerburg.com/Catalog/viewCourse/cid/230 | Behavior Creation with Michael Ellis: https://university.leerburg.com/Catalog/viewCourse/cid/236