My dog Bella will be going into some much needed training, and I will be sharing the journey with you.

Bella was adopted from the Humane Society and has a history that is a mystery to me. It's time to sort out what she knows and what she needs to learn. I'm excited to share this with you as we learn with Trainer Becca how to get from here to there.

I think a trained dog makes for a happier house all the way around. It is my hope that some of these ideas will help you with your dog as well.

Bella has a lot of energy and is friendly and enthusiastic. I love her enthusiasm and big heart, but she still needs to learn not to jump up and not to knock me, or any friends and family, over! She also has a tendency to react to other dogs. Today, we worked very hard to lay the groundwork to get her past this. We're also working on other things that will help her to be a better companion, who can safely venture out for an enjoyable day. I've learned that just saying 'no' is not enough.

Already in this first training (with Becca and her dog), we've made progress, gaining Bella's attention and shifting her focus from reacting to paying attention to me and what I'm asking her to do.

I hope you'll follow along as we make progress.

If you're interested in learning more, you can contact dog trainer Rebecca Miller (no relation!) at 719-306-5851, or email me at jan.miller@ townsquaremedia.com.

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