Leashrly Life local dog parks

If you're in the Leashrly Life area (Norfolk, Massachusetts) you may want to check out these great places to have some fun with your dog.  Thanks to http://www.ecoanimal.com/dogfun/massachusetts.html for this great information.

• Foxboro Dog Park is located off Mill St in Foxboro behind the baseball field. You must show your license to get in and your dog must be registered in the town you live in. There is a pond area with a beach for the dogs to swim.  You'll need to bring your own fresh water.

• Gilbert Hills State Forest is located in Foxboro and Wrentham. There is swimming for dogs in several water holes and brooks.  Trails run throughout the park.  Dogs can be off leash but motorized bikes share the park as well.  They do have a hunting season as well. Heading south on Route 1 from Walpole, enter Foxboro, take left onto High Rock Road.

• Beaver Pond is located at Beaver Recreation Area on Beaver St. in Franklin. It has a small pond with a beach and several walking trails.

Making man's best friend even better II

Does your dog still:

• Bark excessively?
• Pull on the leash?
• Destroy household items?
• Jump on people?

Advanced Obedience

For owners who would like to continue beyond Basic Obedience training, an advanced class may be available.  This should cover in-motion commands and commands from a distance.  This sets the foundation for your dog’s off-leash conditioning.

Your dog should learn:

• Proper behavior and socialization
• To heel by your side
• Automatic sit and hold the sit
• Down and sit by your side
• Down and sit from a distance
• Down and stay command
• Come
• Place
• Down and sit in motion

Residential Training Program
Some dog trainers offer a "sleep over camp," where your dog stays with a certified trainer, taking care of your dog's daily needs along with advancing his training during the course of his stay.

Your dog should learn:

• Proper behavior
• Socialization skills
• Crate training
• House breaking
• On leash commands with hand signals
• All basic obedience commands and in-motion commands

Be sure to find out if your dog trainer offers follow-up training sessions or additional help for unique circumstances.