Dr. Cynthia Maro: January is National Train Your Dog Month 2026

Every January, National Train Your Dog Month reminds us that a well‑trained dog isn’t just a joy to live with – it’s a safer, healthier companion for both humans and other animals.

While many canine behaviors are simply frustrating, others can escalate into dangerous situations that lead to injuries, strained relationships, and, tragically, surrender or euthanasia. The good news is that most of these behaviors are preventable or reversible with early intervention, consistent training and compassionate guidance.

An additional pointer is that rescue dogs may have given up due to unwanted or even biting behaviors. I suggest all rescues be evaluated by a behaviorist before allowing them to interact unsupervised with kids and other pets.

Dogs understand the behaviors they learn from their mothers and in a pack, but they do not instinctively know your commands or how to behave in a human world. They learn through consistency, repetition, reinforcement and clear communication.

When unwanted behaviors are ignored or misunderstood, they often intensify, leading to both animal and human frustration. What starts as a minor nuisance can quickly become a safety risk. National Train Your Dog Month encourages dog owners to recognize that when humans become frustrated, it is likely their dog is also confused and frustrated. Your annoyance and frustration is a sign it is time to seek professional assistance for training.

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