City Pups Need City Skills: How to Train Your Dog for NYC Life

A world where dogs can thrive in the concrete jungle of New York City. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it's possible with the right training and guidance. Annie Grossman, a renowned dog trainer, has dedicated her career to teaching pups the skills they need to survive and even flourish in the Big Apple. Grossman believes that city living requires a unique set of skills, and she's developed a comprehensive approach to dog training that focuses on environment and behavior. Her book, "How to Train Your Dog with Love + Science," offers a modern and science-based approach to dog training, showing how behavior can be changed without coercion and force. So, what can pet owners do at home to help their dogs adjust to city life? Grossman suggests starting with volume control. Dogs can learn to live with the sounds of New York through classical conditioning, or learning by association. Simply play the sound of a siren at low volume in your home, and reward your dog with treats as the sound plays. Gradually increase the volume, and your dog will learn to associate the sound with positive reinforcement. Another crucial skill for city pups is sidewalk socializing. Grossman recommends getting your dog comfortable walking amidst strangers and other dogs on the sidewalk. Start by getting an idea of your dog's comfort zone, then build comfort by moving closer to other dogs and rewarding your dog with treats. Of course, table manners are also essential for city dogs. Grossman uses half-sized yoga mats to train pups to sit and stay, even in high-stimuli settings like busy outdoor restaurants. Simply place the mat on the ground, give your dog a treat, and wait for them to relax before giving another treat. Finally, bringing your pup on the subway can be a battle, especially for dogs who resist their carriers. Grossman suggests practicing with an open-faced tote and working up to the carrier. Start by having your dog get used to the tote, then gradually increase the size of the bag. Having a treat in the bag can also help, and some dogs might need extra steps to feel comfortable.