# CalmerBigDog

> Practical research notes for big family dogs


## Posts

- [K9 Training Institute Review: Is It a Fit for an Excitable Family Dog?](https://calmerbigdog.com/k9-training-institute-review/): A research-based K9 Training Institute review covering course structure, support, practice time and limitations for owners of excitable family dogs.
- [Online Reward-Based Dog Training Courses Compared: Support, Format, and Everyday Manners](https://calmerbigdog.com/compare-dog-courses-by-the-help-they-offer/): Compare Brain Training for Dogs, Dunbar Academy and K9TI by format, training methods, support and fit for an excitable family dog.
- [Give Visitors a Mat With Room to Work](https://calmerbigdog.com/give-visitors-a-mat-with-room-to-work/): A settle mat is easier to use when it fits the dog, grips the floor, and sits far enough from the door to avoid the rush. Check those practical details before asking your dog to relax through a busy greeting.
- [Choose a Long Line You Can Actually Handle](https://calmerbigdog.com/choose-a-long-line-you-can-actually-handle/): A longer line gives recall practice room to breathe, but it also adds tangles, drag, and decisions for the handler. Think through where you’ll use it and how it feels in your hands before you buy.
- [Measure the Gate Before Training the Doorway](https://calmerbigdog.com/measure-the-gate-before-training-the-doorway/): A gate can create breathing room at the front door, but only if it fits the opening and your dog can’t bowl through it. Here’s what to measure before choosing one—and what the gate can’t teach on its own.

## Pages

- [Start Here](https://calmerbigdog.com/start-here/): A practical starting sequence for large, excitable family dogs: boundaries at the threshold, a long-line recall you can keep safe, and a mat routine for when visitors come in.
- [Breeds](https://calmerbigdog.com/breeds/): Our household includes a Labrador, a Toy Aussie, and a mixed-breed Chihuahua.
- [Reviews](https://calmerbigdog.com/reviews/): Our reviews examine published specifications, intended use, training approach, and practical limitations.
- [About](https://calmerbigdog.com/about/): I share my home with a Labrador, a Toy Aussie, and a mixed-breed Chihuahua.
- [Home](https://calmerbigdog.com/): An owner’s research diary on door rushing, recall, and settling when visitors arrive, without shock collars or promised outcomes.


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