Blog Standard – Black Magic Dog Training

Is Dedication Enough? 3 Common Missing Ingredients for Effective Dog Training

You love your dog. You’re committed to helping them succeed. You’ve watched the videos, bought the treats, practiced the exercises, and promised yourself that this time you’re really going to…

Are Dogs Naturally Afraid of Snakes?

July 11, 20260Comments

In many areas of the world, dangerous snakes are simply a reality. They co-exist with humans (and our dogs) in sometimes not-so-harmonious ways, popping up in backyards, long hikes, and…

Are Head Halters Cruel?

July 10, 20260Comments

This article was originally written for the Lugaru K9 Training blog in 2023 and has been updated for Black Magic Dog Training in 2026. Disclaimer: this article contains affiliate links,…

Why Your Dog Trainer’s Dedication Should be to You, Not the Method

July 1, 20260Comments

There are a lot of arguments in dog training. Treats or corrections, harnesses or collars, clickers or verbal markers, "force free" or balanced training. Spend enough time researching dog trainers…

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Dedication or Distance? The Cost of Sending Your Dog Away for Training

June 10, 20260Comments

When your dog is struggling, sending them away to a professional trainer can sound like the perfect solution. You drop off the dog you’re struggling with. A professional handles the…

Dedication to Science, Devotion to Results: My Approach at Black Magic Dog Training

May 3, 20260Comments

One thing that I wasn't prepared for when I first began training around ten years ago is...dog training has a strange way of becoming...ideological. Spend enough time online and you'll…

Designing a Home Gym for Your Canine Athlete

December 17, 20250Comments

Disclaimer: this article may contain affiliate links, and I may receive a commission on sales when you use those links, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products…

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How to Stop Leash Pulling in Dogs: Balanced Dog Training Techniques that Work

November 10, 20250Comments

Disclaimer: this article may contain affiliate links, and I may receive a commission on sales when you use those links, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products…

Can a Xoloitzcuintli Be a Service Dog? Evaluating the Breed for Tasks and Public Access

May 14, 20200Comments

Disclaimer: this article may contain affiliate links, and I may receive a commission on sales when you use those links, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products…

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Building a Service Dog Training Plan: A Step-by-Step Framework for Owner-Trained Service Dogs

May 14, 20200Comments

At Black Magic Dog Training, I specialize in balanced service dog training with a focus on low level pressure-based conditioning and reward, combining structure, positive reinforcement, and real-world proofing. I…

The Complete Guide to Xolo Skincare: Oils, Grooming, and Skin Protection

May 14, 20200Comments

Disclaimer: this article may contain affiliate links, and I may receive a commission on sales when you use those links, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products…

Xoloitzcuintli Temperament: The Ancient Guardian in a Modern Home

May 14, 20200Comments

T o live with a Xoloitzcuintli is not merely to own a dog; it is to be granted stewardship of a living relic. This breed from pre-hispanic Mesoamerica has walked…