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Training & Behavior

A well-trained dog is a happy dog. In our Training & Behavior section, you’ll find expert guidance on everything from crate training and potty training to socialization, separation anxiety, and leash manners. Learn positive, reward-based techniques that strengthen your bond and build confidence in your dog. Whether you’re raising a new puppy or improving an adult dog’s habits, our practical step-by-step guides will help you train with patience, consistency, and care.

Golden Labrador Retriever sitting on grass in a park, looking attentively at a trainer’s hand raised for obedience training.
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Young Labrador Retriever puppy sitting calmly inside a wire crate with a green blanket in a modern Canadian living room.

Crate Training 101

Crate training doesn’t have to be stressful. Learn how to introduce the crate as a positive, safe space for your puppy with this step-by-step guide.

Golden Retriever puppy sniffing noses with a Jack Russell Terrier at a park, supervised by their owners, symbolizing safe socialization.

How to Socialize Your Puppy

Socialization is one of the most important steps in raising a happy, confident dog. This guide explains when to start, how to introduce your puppy to new experiences, and common mistakes to avoid—so your puppy grows up calm, well-adjusted, and friendly.

Young Beagle sitting in a living room surrounded by chewed furniture and scattered pillow stuffing, symbolizing dog separation anxiety.

Dealing with Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioral challenges for dogs, leading to stress, barking, and even household destruction. This in-depth guide explains why it happens, how to recognize the signs, and step-by-step strategies—including desensitization, enrichment, and professional support—to help your dog feel calm and secure when left alone.

Group of dogs of different breeds playing together in a fenced Canadian dog park while their owners watch and supervise on a sunny day.

Dog Park Etiquette 101: A Canadian Guide

Dog parks are a fantastic way for dogs to exercise and socialize, but they only work when owners follow good etiquette. This Canadian guide covers the essential do’s and don’ts — from supervising your pup to respecting local bylaws — so every visit is safe, fun, and stress-free.

Fun Fact
Dogs are awesome.
Female dog names hero image—playful and elegant name ideas on a LeashFree green backdrop.

Friendly, melodic names shine for female pups. Favourites like Luna, Bella, Daisy, Lucy, Lily, and Rosie are popular for a reason - clear, upbeat, and trainer-approved. Consider Hazel, Ivy, Ruby, Piper, Winnie, and Nova if you want timeless with a twist.

Male dog names hero image—playful and elegant name ideas on a LeashFree green backdrop.

Short, bold, and easy to call—male dog names often carry a strong consonant that pops at the park. If you like classic choices, start with Charlie, Max, Cooper, Milo, Leo, and Duke; for modern vibes, try Finn, Theo, Hudson, or Maverick.

Male dog names hero image—playful and elegant name ideas on a LeashFree green backdrop.

Want something fresh that still passes the “trainer test”? Unique picks like Cosmo, Orion, Echo, Zephyr, Indie, or Rogue stand out without confusing your dog during cues.


Cute dog names hero—adorable puppy imagery on a LeashFree green backdrop.

Cute names lean short and sweet, perfect for cuddle bugs and clowns. Think Waffles, Mochi, Peanut, Biscuit, Poppy, and Teddy - each one fun to say and great for positive recall.


Strong dog names hero: Doberman, Rottweiler, Belgian Malinois, Boxer and Husky on a LeashFree green backdrop—powerful male & female name ideas.

For confident, athletic dogs, strong names offer presence and clarity. Try Rex, Thor, Atlas, Diesel, Titan, or Xena - each delivers punchy syllables and crisp consonants for clear recall.

Nature dog names hero  - forest, lake, and mountain mood on a LeashFree green backdrop.


Outdoorsy families love names that nod to trails, lakes, and sky. Willow, River, Aspen, Juniper, Skye, and Clover are calm, earthy picks that age beautifully.


Colour dog names hero - black, white, brown, red, and blue/grey coat inspiration on a LeashFree green backdrop.

Colour names highlight coat and personality in one. Consider Onyx, Hazel, Ruby, Pearl, Indigo, or Slate to match markings and make photos pop.Outdoorsy families love names that nod to trails, lakes, and sky. Willow, River, Aspen, Juniper, Skye, and Clover are calm, earthy picks that age beautifully.