Lessons from Lena

Lessons From Lena Welcome to my blog! My name is Andrea Burggrabe, and I run I Speak Woof, LLC.  I am a certified dog trainer as well as a high school special education and biology teacher.  I am very active in my local dog rescue community and strive to make sure all dog owners can have access to resources and training so that they can experience the same partnership and deep connection that I do with my own dogs.  This helps insure that all dogs (whether acquired by adopting or shopping) stay in their forever homes, have their needs met, and are loved forever and always. Dog ownership does not need to make you feel exhausted and like you are pulling hair our of your head.  It should bring true joy to both the dog and their family!  I chose the name "Lessons From Lena" because my Lena Bee has taught me more about myself and about dogs than I could ever have dreamed.  She has taught me that training is not about what tool you use, but about truly understand...

What is enrichment? Enrichment is something that adds value, pleasure, and joy to life.   Enrichment is something that is rewarding to our dogs. It can be natural activities or ones that are created by human design.  It may look a bit different from dog to dog because each dog will have their own favorites.  Just as some humans may prefer to spend their free time solving a jigsaw puzzle or playing video games, others may prefer to go hiking or to play a sport.  The same goes for our dogs.  Some may love to chase and sniff out prey, while others may prefer car rides or food puzzles. Who can benefit from enrichment? All dogs can benefit from enrichment in many ways. Enrichment activities are also great for increasing the bond between human and dog. The best way to make our dogs happy is to provide them with most of the things they desire in order to meet their needs and to create positive and playful interactions with us. Many types of enrichment are also gre...