The Belle & Bark blog

Welcome to the Belle & Bark blog, your trusted source for dog training tips grounded in science and everyday experience. Whether you’re raising a puppy, managing adolescent chaos, or working through behaviour challenges, we’re here to help.

Our articles share practical training ideas, behaviour insights, and thoughtful reflections on life with dogs. We focus on communication, trust, and connection. Because every dog deserves to learn with confidence, and every guardian deserves tools that make sense.

As certified professionals and members of the CAPDT, IAABC, and ABMA, we combine evidence and empathy in everything we write.

From quick tips to deeper guidance, you’ll find the support you need right here.

Latest dog training tips and behaviour advice

Private puppy training in a Montreal apartment, showing a puppy biting fabric on a couch

Private puppy training, city edition

Raising a puppy in the city comes with noise, opinions, and a lot of advice. Here’s why private puppy training can be a better fit for Montreal homes, how to think about socialization without the pressure, and what actually helps puppies learn in real life.
can dogs learn words by listening to humans

Can dogs learn words? A surprising science spotlight

A new study suggests that some dogs can learn the names of objects simply by listening to human conversations. This science spotlight explores what researchers observed, why only certain dogs show this ability, and what it reveals about canine learning beyond formal training.
Dog behaviour consultation discussing a dog’s behaviour

Dog behaviour consultation explained: When support makes sense

A dog behaviour consultation helps you understand what’s driving your dog’s behaviour, especially when situations feel tense, confusing, or hard to manage. This guide explains what a consult involves, what it’s commonly used for, and what you can expect to take away, so the next steps feel grounded and realistic.
Dog training progress shown through calm observation during a leash walk

What dog training progress looks like

Dog training progress isn’t always obvious. Learn how it often shows up first through recovery, regulation, and small shifts that are easy to miss, and how to recognize progress even when behaviour hasn’t fully changed yet.
fall activities for dogs in Montreal

Fall activities for dogs in Montreal (and beyond)

Fall in Montreal is short but stunning. From leaf-crunching hikes in the Eastern Townships to orchard picnics and cozy cafés, there’s plenty to enjoy with your dog. Explore local festivals, enrichment ideas, and safety tips to make the most of the season together.
Chihuahua dog wearing a green knitted sweater barking playfully in Montreal during fall walk

3 signs your dog is cold on fall walks

Montreal fall weather is brisk, and dogs feel it too. Discover 3 clear signs your dog is cold on walks — from shivering to tucked tails — plus easy ways to keep outings safe and comfortable with coats, paw care, and shorter walks.
Dog receiving food as the best reinforcer for dog training

Best reinforcer for dog training: What science says

What’s the best reinforcer for dog training? Food is the most reliable choice, backed by science. Learn how praise, play, and even everyday activities can be conditioned as reinforcers, and how to figure out what motivates your dog most in different situations.
golden retriever, dog, nature, puppy, retriever, animal, cute, pet, fur, biscuit, friendly, trick

Mental exercise for dogs: The fatigue factor

Mental exercise for dogs doesn’t just tire them out, it builds confidence and calm. Discover why short brain games leave dogs more settled than long walks, and how to add simple activities that challenge your dog’s mind in a healthy, rewarding way.
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Explore topics

Dog Community in Montreal

Dog Grooming and General Care

Dog Health and Behaviour Science

Dog Training and Behaviour

Exercise Enrichment and Lifestyle

Integrating Your Dog into Your Life

Foundational dog training tips

New to Belle & Bark? These posts introduce our training philosophy, outline what to expect from sessions, and share tips to build lasting skills and connection.

  • Dog training and agency: Why choice matters
    Featured Blog post

    Dog training and agency: Why choice matters

    Giving your dog more choice builds confidence, reduces stress, and strengthens your relationship. Here’s how to add more agency to daily life.

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  • Science-based dog training that builds trust and confidence
    Featured Blog post

    Science-based dog training that builds trust and confidence

    Our science-based dog training approach blends proven research, empathy, and collaboration. We teach with clarity and compassion, helping families understand behaviour, strengthen communication, and create lasting trust.

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  • How dogs learn: Essential science for better training
    Featured Blog post

    How dogs learn: Essential science for better training

    Dogs learn through associations, consequences, and social context. By understanding the science of learning, you can train with clarity and kindness. Explore how positive reinforcement, consistency, and trust transform the way dogs learn, and make training more effective for you both.

    Read more

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