If you’ve lived in Northern Virginia for any length of time, you know exactly what happens when the calendar flips to winter. The daylight disappears before you leave the office, the sidewalks in Arlington turn icy, and the open green spaces in Alexandria become muddy...
When I first started working with dogs nearly two decades ago, I spent my days driving across Virginia, picking up dogs for outdoor pack walks. I loved the freedom of it, but I also started to notice a troubling pattern. I would drop a dog off at a traditional kennel...
After nearly 20 years of working hands-on with dogs, I’ve seen firsthand that enrichment isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of a happy, balanced life. It’s the difference between a dog who is just existing and one who is truly thriving. Meaningful enrichment supports...
Max was a two-year-old German Shepherd who arrived at our Canine Cardio gym with more energy than direction. His owner described daily walks that felt like battles, furniture that bore the scars of anxious chewing, separation anxiety, the dog’s mouth is sore,...
I’ve worked with countless nervous dogs in Arlington over the years—dogs who shake, cower, avoid eye contact, or simply can’t settle even in the comfort of their own home. Many owners come to me, their voices filled with a mix of hope and frustration, asking, “Can a...
After nearly two decades of working hands-on with dogs in Northern Virginia, I’ve learned that a calm dog isn’t bribed with treats or distracted by toys. A truly relaxed dog is one whose needs are met. This state of calm is earned through a combination of...
