It’s not just babysitting

Most daycare facilities are designed to keep your dog busy and out of your hair while you’re at work. That’s not a bad thing — but it’s not what we do.

At I Said Sit!, Educational Daycare is a full training program. Your dog comes to us during the day, and instead of spending eight hours playing with a pack of other dogs in a loud open room, they follow a structured routine of individual training sessions, enrichment activities, rest time, and socialization. Every single day.

By the time you pick them up, they’ve actually learned something.

What does a typical day look like?

Dogs in our Educational Daycare program aren’t just supervised — they’re busy in the best possible way. Here’s how a typical day flows:

Each dog gets their own private space with bedding, toys, and fresh water — a calm “home base” they can relax in between activities. From there, the day alternates between:

• Individual training sessions — one-on-one time with a trainer working on their specific goals (sit, stay, leash manners, recall, you name it)
• Mini training moments — short, frequent reinforcements woven throughout the day so the learning sticks
• Socialization and play — carefully selected small play groups, not a free-for-all
• Enrichment activities — stuffed Kongs, scent game, mazes, puzzles, and more
• Scheduled rest — because dogs need downtime, and learning to settle is a skill too

We also do scheduled potty breaks with designated areas, so your dog isn’t picking up bad bathroom habits. We have a have raised, drained turf — meaning we get to keep it clean, and we do so three times a day, also your dog is not spending their day standing in a soiled space.

Why does structure matter so much?

Here’s something we see all the time: dogs who go to a typical cage-free daycare five days a week can get progressively harder to live with at home. More barking. More jumping. More leash reactivity on weekend walks.

It makes sense when you think about it. If a dog spends 40+ hours a week in a high-stimulation environment where they can bark freely, greet every dog they see, go to the bathroom wherever, and never have to wait for anything — that’s what they practice. And dogs get very good at what they practice.

Our program is intentionally different. We keep groups small. We prioritize calm. We build in rest. And we train, every day, with positive reinforcement methods you and your dog will both enjoy.

The part that makes it really work: you’re included

This is the piece most people don’t expect — and the piece that makes the biggest difference.

Every week, new clients sit down for a one-hour private session with your dog’s trainer. We show you what your dog is learning, teach you how to reinforce it at home, and give you the tools to keep the progress going after the program ends.

Because here’s the truth: if your dog learns “sit” beautifully at daycare but you don’t know how to cue it at home, the training only goes so far. We want you to feel just as confident as your dog does.

Who is it best for?

Educational Daycare tends to be the perfect fit for people who:

• Work long days and can’t be home to train consistently
• Have kids at home that make maintaining routines tough
• Are on Zoom calls all day and their dog is… not helping
• Want real, lasting results — not just a tired dog at the end of the day
• Have a puppy and want to get started on the right foot from day one

One thing we hear from clients all the time after completing the program: their dog is so much calmer and more settled at home that they don’t even need daycare anymore. That’s the goal — a well-trained dog who is happy and confident whether they’re with us or with you.

How do you get started?

All new students begin with a one-hour consultation ($200) where you’ll meet your trainer, tour our facility, talk through your goals, and start building a personalized training plan. It’s a great way to get a feel for the program before committing.

From there, we’ll get your dog enrolled and on their way.

Ready to learn more? Click here to get in touch or give us a call at 310-558-9037. We’d love to meet your dog.

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One of the most rewarding ways to show your dog love is through the gift of clear communication. Many people don’t realize that dog training is actually a profound act of love. When you invest in your dog’s education, you aren’t just teaching them to “sit” or “stay”—you are building a language of mutual respect and safety. Our reward-based training methods ensure that your dog feels confident and happy while learning, which reduces stress and helps them navigate the world with ease. A well-trained dog is a dog that can go more places and enjoy more adventures with you!

In addition to mental stimulation through learning, physical play is essential for a happy pet. Interactive toys and enrichment activities are fantastic tools to keep your dog’s mind sharp and their body active. Whether it’s a challenging puzzle feeder that mimics their natural scavenging instincts or a sturdy tug toy for some one-on-one playtime, choosing the right gear shows you care about their holistic well-being. Keeping a rotating variety of toys prevents boredom and ensures that “playtime” remains the highlight of their day.

If you’re looking for more ways to celebrate or need help finding the perfect program for your pup, feel free to explore our recent blog posts for more tips on pet care and behavior. Happy National Love Your Pet Day from all of us at “I Said Sit!”—make sure to give your best friend an extra treat (and maybe a belly rub) today!

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If you are looking to make a difference this month, cash donations are always incredible because they allow rescues to allocate funds where they are needed most, whether that’s emergency vet bills or keeping the heat on. However, tangible goods are also desperately needed during the holidays. Most local shelters have an ongoing critical need for clean, gently used blankets and towels to provide soft bedding. Unopened bags of high-quality dog food, durable chew toys to alleviate kennel boredom, and even cleaning supplies are always high on their wish lists. Before buying new, check if your local favorite rescue has an Amazon or Chewy wish list so you can send exactly what they need directly to their door.

One organization that is particularly near and dear to my heart is Downtown Dog Rescue(DDR). They are a cornerstone of the LA animal welfare community, known for their incredible outreach work on Skid Row and in South LA. What makes DDR specialized is their focus on keeping dogs with the families who love them by providing resources—like free spay/neuter, medical assistance, and food—preventing pets from entering the shelter system in the first place. During December, DDR is often in high need of warm dog jackets, sturdy leashes/collars, and blankets to support unhoused community members and their loyal companion animals.

Supporting these local heroes doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you choose to make a financial contribution to Downtown Dog Rescue, drop off a stack of clean towels at a city shelter, or fulfill an online wish list for a smaller foster-based rescue, every bit helps. Let’s work together to make sure every dog in Los Angeles feels a little bit of the holiday warmth this year.

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If you want to make your dog a special plate, a good rule of thumb is to set aside small portions of these foods before you add any butter, salt, sugar, or seasonings.

• Turkey: A small amount of unseasoned, skinless, boneless white meat is a wonderful treat.
• Giblets: The heart and gizzard are great treats, but they are safest when cooked plain.  The safest way to prepare them is to boil them in water for 10-20 minutes until cooked through. Once cool, chop them into bite-sized pieces. (Avoid the neck, as its bones are a hazard, even when raw).
• Pumpkin: Plain, cooked pumpkin (or canned pumpkin, not pie filling) is excellent for a dog’s digestion.
• Sweet Potato: Plain, cooked, and mashed sweet potatoes are a safe and tasty treat. Avoid any with butter, sugar, or marshmallows.
• Green Beans: Plain, cooked (or even raw) green beans are a perfectly safe, low-calorie snack.
• Carrots: Raw or plain cooked carrots are a great, crunchy treat.
• Apples: Slices of apple are a good snack, but be sure to remove the core and all seeds, as seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide.
• Mashed Potatoes: A small spoonful of plain, boiled, and mashed potatoes is okay. However, most Thanksgiving mashed potatoes—with butter, cream, salt, garlic, or onions—are a definite “no.”

The “Do Not Share” List

This list contains foods that are either toxic or can cause severe stomach upset, including a dangerous condition called pancreatitis.

Always Toxic (Keep Out of Reach)

• Onions, Garlic, Leeks, and Chives: These are all part of the allium family and are toxic to dogs. They can cause damage to your dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. This is the primary reason stuffing and many gravies are so dangerous.
• Grapes and Raisins: These are highly toxic and can cause sudden kidney failure.
• Chocolate: A well-known toxin, especially dark and baking chocolate.
• Alcohol: Even small amounts can be life-threatening.
• Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is extremely toxic to dogs. It is often found in “sugar-free” baked goods, peanut butter, and some candies. Always check the label.
• Coffee & Caffeine: Can cause hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, and seizures.
• Raw Yeast Dough: The raw dough can expand in your dog’s warm stomach, causing severe pain and bloating. It also ferments, producing alcohol.

Unsafe in Holiday Form

• Turkey Bones (Cooked or Raw): You are absolutely right. Cooked bones become brittle and can splinter, causing choking or internal punctures. Raw bones also pose a splintering risk and can carry bacteria like salmonella.
• Turkey Skin, Fat & Drippings: These high-fat foods are not easily digested by dogs and are a common cause of pancreatitis, a painful and potentially fatal inflammation of the pancreas.
• Stuffing: As mentioned, this is a dangerous dish, almost always containing onions, garlic, and high-fat ingredients.
• Gravy: This is typically too rich, fatty, and salty for your dog.
• Cranberry Sauce: While plain cranberries are safe, the canned sauce is loaded with sugar, which can cause stomach upset. Some recipes even include grapes or raisins.
• Pumpkin Pie & Desserts: These are full of sugar, fats, and dangerous spices. Nutmeg, in particular, can be toxic in large doses, and many desserts may contain xylitol or chocolate.

A Quick Note on Herbs

You may be wondering about herbs like sage or rosemary, which are common in stuffing.

• Sage: According to the ASPCA, culinary sage is non-toxic to dogs in small amounts. The danger comes because it is almost always in stuffing, which contains toxic onions, garlic, and fat.
• Rosemary: This is also generally safe in small amounts, but it can be a problem for dogs with pre-existing seizure disorders.

Given the risks, the safest bet is to follow your rule: if it has sugars or seasonings, don’t share it.

While it pays to be thoughtful about what you share, there are plenty of ways to share a safe Thanksgiving meal with your dog. Use this information to prepare a healthy plate for your dog. For dogs boarding with us over the holiday, we offer a Thanksgiving wet food add-on so they can enjoy a treat!

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So, what exactly is cooperative care? It is a training philosophy centered on teaching an animal to participate in husbandry and medical procedures voluntarily. Instead of relying on force or restraint, we use positive reinforcement to build their confidence and give them a sense of control. This can look like a dog placing their chin on a pillow for an ear exam, a cat offering a paw for a nail trim, or a bird stepping onto a scale to be weighed. The foundation of this approach is consent; the animal always has the choice to opt-out, which fundamentally changes the dynamic from a scary struggle to a trusting partnership.

The benefits of investing time in cooperative care are immense. For our pets, the reduction in fear and stress can lead to better overall health, as chronic stress can negatively impact their immune systems. This approach makes essential care safer for everyone involved, minimizing the risk of injury to the pet, the owner, or veterinary staff. Most importantly, it profoundly deepens the bond you share with your companion. When your pet learns that you will listen to their signals and respect their choices, it builds an unbreakable foundation of trust that extends into all aspects of your relationship. You can read more about building a positive relationship with your pet on our blog.

Getting started with cooperative care is a journey of small, successful steps. It begins with teaching your pet a “start button” behavior, such as a chin rest or stationing on a mat, which signals their readiness to begin. From there, you can break down a procedure into tiny, manageable pieces, rewarding your pet for each voluntary interaction. For example, instead of immediately clipping a nail, you might start by simply rewarding them for letting you touch the nail clipper to their paw. By carefully observing their body language and always ending on a positive note, you gradually build their comfort and confidence over time.

This National Pet Wellness Month, commit to enhancing your pet’s quality of life by exploring the power of cooperative care. It is one of the most profound gifts you can give them, fostering a lifetime of trust and stress-free care. To help you on this rewarding journey, we are excited to announce our upcoming Cooperative Care class! Join us to learn the fundamental skills and techniques needed to transform grooming and vet visits from a battle into a bonding experience. Visit our website at www.isaidsit.com or call us today to learn more and reserve your spot!

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March 30th marks Take a Walk in the Park Day, a perfect opportunity to celebrate the simple joy of getting outdoors with your canine companion. While many of us understand the basic need for exercise, a walk in the park offers so much more than just physical activity for both dogs and their owners. It’s a chance to strengthen your bond, improve mental well-being, and let your dog truly be a dog.

Walks are a vital part of our dogs’ physical and mental health. Regular walks help maintain a healthy weight, improve cardiovascular fitness, and stimulate their senses. But beyond the physical benefits, walks offer crucial mental enrichment. The sights, sounds, and, most importantly, the smells of the park provide a rich sensory experience that keeps their minds engaged and stimulated. This is where the “sniffari” comes in. Forget about rushing your dog along a predetermined route. Instead, allow them to lead the way, stopping to sniff every interesting scent they encounter. Let them explore the world through their noses, gathering information and satisfying their natural curiosity. This “sniffari” experience is like reading the daily newspaper for your dog, providing mental stimulation and reducing stress. If your dog struggles on walks we have a variety of training options to help you.

The benefits aren’t limited to our canine companions. Dog owners also reap significant rewards from taking walks in the park. Physical activity, even at a leisurely pace, improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and boosts energy levels. But perhaps even more importantly, walks provide a much-needed break from the stresses of daily life. The fresh air, natural surroundings, and the simple act of spending time with your dog can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote relaxation. Taking time to watch your dog happily explore the park allows you to slow down, be present, and appreciate the simple joys of life.

This Take a Walk in the Park Day, make it a point to embrace the “sniffari” experience. Let your dog be a dog, allowing them to explore and engage with their surroundings at their own pace. And while you’re at it, take a moment to appreciate the many benefits that walking in the park provides for both you and your furry best friend. It’s a chance to connect with nature, strengthen your bond, and create lasting memories. So, leash up, head to your favorite park, and embark on a sniffari adventure together!

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National Puppy Day, celebrated on March 23rd, is a delightful occasion to shower our furry little bundles of joy with extra love and appreciation. But beyond the cuddles and playtime, it’s also a crucial reminder of the responsibility that comes with raising a puppy. The early months of a puppy’s life are a critical window for development, shaping their behavior and temperament for years to come. One of the most vital aspects of this period is socialization – exposing your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments. Proper socialization helps prevent fear and anxiety, fostering a confident and well-adjusted dog.

Socializing your puppy isn’t just about playdates at the dog park. It’s about carefully and positively introducing them to the world around them. This includes everything from the sounds of traffic and household appliances to different types of people and other animals. During this delicate time, it’s important to remember that all experiences should be positive. A bad experience during the socialization period can have a lasting negative impact. Our group puppy classes are specifically designed to provide a safe and controlled environment for puppies to interact with each other and learn essential social skills. Under the guidance of our experienced trainers, puppies learn appropriate play behavior, basic commands, and how to navigate social situations, building their confidence and reducing the likelihood of future behavioral issues.

At “I Said Sit!”, we understand the importance of early socialization, which is why we offer comprehensive puppy programs that go beyond traditional training. Our educational daycare provides a unique opportunity for puppies to learn and grow in a stimulating and supervised setting. Throughout the day, puppies participate in structured activities designed to enhance their social skills, problem-solving abilities, and obedience. This immersive experience allows them to practice their social skills in a consistent and positive way, helping them develop into well-rounded companions. We also provide guidance and education to puppy parents to ensure that the good socialization continues at home.

This National Puppy Day, take the opportunity to invest in your puppy’s future. By prioritizing socialization and providing them with positive learning experiences, you’re laying the groundwork for a lifetime of happiness and companionship. Whether it’s through our group puppy classes or educational daycare, “I Said Sit!” is here to support you and your puppy every step of the way. We believe that with the right guidance and care, every puppy can reach their full potential, becoming a cherished member of your family and a well-behaved member of the community.

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“Billie” the Vizla with DJ

The image of a hunting dog often conjures up visions of wide-open fields, thrilling chases, and retrieving games. But what happens when that hunting dog finds itself in the heart of a bustling city? While it might seem counterintuitive, many people in urban environments find themselves drawn to the loyalty and intelligence of hunting breeds. However, city living with a hunting dog presents unique challenges that require a deep understanding of canine behavior and a commitment to specialized training.

Hunting dogs, by their very nature, possess strong instincts and drives that can be difficult to manage in a city setting. Their innate prey drive, bred for generations to chase and capture, can be triggered by squirrels, pigeons, and even small dogs darting through busy streets. Their high energy levels, meant for long days of work in the field, can lead to frustration and destructive behaviors when confined to smaller living spaces and limited exercise opportunities.

Furthermore, the constant noise, activity, and close proximity to other people and animals in a city can be overwhelming for a dog accustomed to open spaces and quieter surroundings. This can lead to anxiety, reactivity, and difficulty focusing, making training and everyday life more challenging.

However, don’t lose hope! Owning a hunting dog in a city isn’t impossible, but it requires a dedicated approach, training and a willingness to adapt. This is where Kim Brophey’s LEGS model, as detailed in her book Meet Your Dog and LEGS seminar, becomes invaluable. LEGS stands for Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self, and it emphasizes the interconnectedness of these factors in shaping a dog’s behavior.

By understanding your hunting dog’s genetic predispositions, you can anticipate potential challenges and tailor your training accordingly. Creating an environment that minimizes stressors while providing outlets for natural behaviors is crucial. This might involve finding creative ways to provide mental and physical, such as scent work games, puzzle toys, and safe off-leash opportunities.

“Bassie” the German Short Hair Pointer with Marlen

Most importantly, consistent and specialized training is key. Early socialization is vital to help your hunting dog adapt to the urban environment and avoid developing fear or reactivity. Impulse control training, focusing on commands like “leave it,” “drop it,” and “stay,” is essential for managing their prey drive and ensuring safety around distractions.

It’s important to remember that owning a hunting dog in a city is a commitment. It requires patience, consistency, and a willingness to adapt your lifestyle to meet your dog’s needs. While it can be incredibly rewarding to see your hunting dog thrive in an urban environment, it’s not always an easy path.

If you’re considering a hunting breed for city living, be honest with yourself about the challenges involved. Do your research, choose a breed that aligns with your lifestyle, and be prepared to invest in professional training and ongoing management. With the right approach and support, you can create a fulfilling life for both you and your hunting dog, even in the heart of the city.

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The Littermate Syndrome Misconception

One common misconception is that the challenges associated with raising two puppies stem solely from “Littermate Syndrome.” While this syndrome, characterized by excessive bonding between littermates, can pose difficulties in training and socialization, it’s not the only factor to consider. Even puppies of different litters but close in age can exhibit similar behavioral patterns due to the intense bond they form during their critical developmental stages.

The Double Dose of Demands

Raising two puppies essentially means dealing with a “double dose” of everything – the potty training accidents, the chewing, the biting, the sleepless nights. This can be incredibly overwhelming for even the most dedicated pet parents. It requires double the time, energy, and patience to ensure both puppies receive the individual attention and training they need to thrive. It is not for the faint of heart, and trainers will generally discourage taking on two puppies because they want to see puppies thrive and not clients pulling their hair out at their witts end. 

Training and Socialization Challenges

Training and socialization are crucial for any puppy, but the challenges are amplified with two. Puppies can easily become distracted by each other, making it harder to focus on training commands. Additionally, if one puppy is more dominant or confident, it can hinder the other’s development and socialization opportunities. When it comes to dog training it takes 3 times the work to train 2 puppies. You have to train one puppy, then train the other puppy, and finally work on teaching them together because, with littermates, they will always be each other’s greatest distraction. 

The Financial Strain

It’s important to remember that raising a puppy is a financial commitment. With two puppies, the costs of food, supplies and toys, vet visits, and training double. This can put a significant strain on the average family’s budget.

A Word of Caution

While raising two puppies simultaneously is undoubtedly challenging, it’s not impossible. However, it requires a realistic assessment of your time, energy, resources, and commitment level. If you’re considering bringing home two furry bundles of joy, be prepared for the challenges ahead. Remember, responsible pet ownership means ensuring that all your pets receive the care and attention they need to live happy, healthy lives. Call us and get set for success!

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National Cook for Your Pets Day, celebrated on November 1st, is the perfect opportunity to show our furry companions how much we care by preparing them a homemade meal. This special day encourages pet owners to move beyond store-bought pet food and get creative in the kitchen. Cooking for your pets is not only a fun and rewarding experience but also a fantastic way to ensure they receive nutritious, wholesome meals tailored to their needs. To truly appreciate the benefits of homemade pet food, let’s delve into some mouth-watering recipes, and highlight the health advantages of cooking for your beloved pets.

When cooking for your pets, it’s essential to understand what ingredients are safe and beneficial for their health. For dogs, lean meats like chicken, turkey, and beef can be excellent protein sources. Vegetables such as carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes add vital vitamins and minerals. Cats, being obligate carnivores, thrive on animal protein, so incorporating fish or poultry into their meals can be highly beneficial. However, always avoid ingredients like onions, grapes, and chocolate, which can be toxic to pets. By carefully selecting fresh and high-quality ingredients, you can prepare a meal that is not only delicious but also nourishing.

One highly recommended resource for pet nutrition is the book “The Forever Dog” by Dr. Karen Becker and Rodney Habib. This book provides a wealth of information on the long-term health benefits of a balanced diet for dogs. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating fresh, unprocessed foods into your pet’s diet and highlights how certain foods can significantly improve their well-being. For instance, the book discusses how antioxidants from fresh fruits and vegetables can help combat inflammation and boost the immune system. By referencing “The Forever Dog,” pet owners can gain valuable insights into creating meals that support their pets’ longevity and health. Even just adding 10% fresh food toppers to a kibble diet can be the start of change and have great health benefits. 

Cooking for your pets can be a fun activity that involves the whole family, bringing everyone closer together. Moreover, homemade meals can cater to specific dietary needs, ensuring that pets with allergies or sensitivities can still enjoy tasty and nutritious food. Observing your pet’s joy and excitement as they savor a home-cooked meal is truly a rewarding experience.

National Cook for Your Pets Day is an excellent reminder to pamper your pets with a special treat made from scratch. By exploring healthy recipes and understanding the benefits of fresh ingredients, pet owners can provide their furry companions with meals that support their overall health and happiness. With guidance from resources like “The Forever Dog,” you can embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the love and care we have for our pets. So, don your doggie apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s celebrate this day by cooking up a feast that will have tails wagging!

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