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

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Video dog training consults: What to expect

A video dog training consultation offers expert guidance from the comfort of your home. Learn what to expect, how to prepare, and how Belle & Bark helps you plan for life with your future dog.
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Sniffari walk: How to plan the perfect outing

Discover the benefits of sniffari walks and how allowing your dog to lead the way can enhance their mental stimulation and reduce stress. This guide covers everything you need to plan engaging and fulfilling sniffari experiences for your dog.
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Why is sniffing important? How scent work benefits your dog

Sniffing is far more than a quirky habit—it’s a powerful tool for reducing stress, improving mood, building confidence, and supporting behaviour. In this article, we explore why your dog’s nose is their greatest ally, and how giving them the freedom to sniff can lead to calmer, happier, and more focused…
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Private dog training in Montreal

Private dog training doesn’t have to be a mystery. This post walks you through what to expect before, during, and after your sessions with Belle & Bark. Learn how our personalized, science-based approach supports your goals and builds confidence on both ends of the leash.
Young woman with curly hair playing with her dog outdoors in a sunny park.

Luring in dog training: Why it can slow progress

Luring your dog with treats can feel intuitive—but did you know it might actually slow training down? Science shows that dogs learn best when they actively engage with training through clear markers and rewards. By shifting to marker training, your dog becomes an active learner, clearly understanding exactly what behaviour…
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How training shapes your dog’s outlook

Dogs can develop optimistic or pessimistic outlooks based on their experiences. Discover how training methods shape their mindset and why positive reinforcement leads to better outcomes.
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Ditch the shock: Why positive training is the better choice

Research shows that shock collars cause stress, fear, and harm without offering benefits over positive reinforcement. Studies confirm they negatively impact the human-animal bond, increase anxiety, and may lead to aggression. Learn why modern, science-backed training methods are the best choice for building trust and confidence in your dog.
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What to teach your puppy: A guide for new dog parents

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but knowing where to start with training can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll cover the first three things every new dog parent should teach their puppy: name recognition, engagement, and handling exercises. These foundations will help set your pup up for success…
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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.

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