The Dog Calming Code: My #1 Secret to Successfully Training Over 88,000 Dogs

dog training to build a strong bond and better behavior.

Last Updated: August 2025

Last updated: August 2026

Hi, I'm Doggy Dan, and if you’ve been asking yourself any of the following questions…

  • When did I lose the love for owning my dog?
  • When did it stop being fun to have my dog around?
  • What would my life look like if I had a training manual for my dog?

…then it’s possible that your dog’s behavior has become more than you’ve bargained for.
If you’re feeling this way, I first want you to know YOU'RE NOT ALONE.

You see, we are often led to believe that dogs will listen and respond to us like other humans do.

Then, when our dogs fail to understand what we are asking them to do and do something else, we get frustrated, upset, and angry.

Plain and simple, most of us don’t understand how to live with our dogs.

And I used to be in this camp! Because very simply put, NONE OF US are born with THE MIND OF A DOG…

For this reason, we often feel hopeless and discouraged when, after years of attempting to train our dogs, we don’t find success.

Sadly, this pent-up frustration can quickly put a wedge between you and your dog, causing you to feel disconnected or even resentful toward your pup.

The good news…

  • It’s very likely that your dog DOES NOT NEED MORE TRAINING, the solution is actually far simpler than that.
  • It’s easy once you DISCOVER HOW TO COMMUNICATE with your dog and bring back the love and excitement into your relationship with your pooch.
  • And today, I’m going to help you focus in on THE ONE THING that you may be missing that has helped me successfully train over 88,000 dogs.

We’ll get to that in a minute…BUT FIRST I want to share one of the most eye opening STORIES with you!

Well…there you have it. Without further ado, let’s jump into the meat and potatoes of what I’m going to share today…

5 Reasons The Dog Calming Code Won’t Fail You or Your Dog

If you’re like most people, you’ve already tried a few ways to train your dog.

After all, from positive-only training using clickers and treats to more corrective methods such as using prong collars, and electric shock collars there are a thousand things you can do to try and wrangle your pup.

Sadly, even with all of these gadgets on the market, there’s very likely still a BIG piece of the jigsaw puzzle missing.

Let me explain…

Trying to train a dog who is NOT FOCUSED ON YOU when it really matters is not a smart way to train him.

Put very simply…it's much better to get him calm and focused on YOU FIRST.

After a decade of sharing this method with over 88,000 people online, I’ve come to realize that the missing piece is the The Dog Calming Code.

It’s this essential relationship element that needs to be put in place BEFORE you do anything else if you want to avoid going crazy in the process of training your dog!

What’s the benefit to you?

Well here are 5 things The Dog Calming Code will do that will TRANSFORM the way you view training your pup or dog, taking your results to the next level.

REASON #1 – The Dog Calming Code First of All Sets Up a New Healthy Relationship.

Feel like you are often clashing with your dog in terms of what you and he want?

Almost like you are on different pages? Well the chances are you have a serious underlying glitch and that is why everything seems like a struggle…

When you and your dog are constantly challenging each other, your relationship—like any human relationship—will become strained, and it loses some of its enjoyment.

As your frustrations with each other increase, it will eventually become impossible to work through training issues because both of you will be pulling in your own directions.

This is why setting up a healthy relationship with your dog is one of the most important things you can do as a dog owner—and The Dog Calming Code will teach you how to do just that.

When you get this bit right, EVERYTHING ELSE FALLS INTO PLACE, and training your dog is no longer a battle.

You and your dog will feel like you’re on the same page and working towards the same goals, and The Dog Calming Code will help ensure that your dog starts looking to you for answers and direction when it really matters.

REASON #2 – The Dog Calming Code Makes Training Easier.

Ever noticed how some dog owners have dogs who “listen” and are obedient, while others have dogs who have “cloth ears” and are disobedient?

This differentiation has virtually nothing to do with a dog’s breed or bloodlines. Rather it has everything to do with the relational foundation that you have laid down for your dog.

You see, with a good, healthy relationship in place, YOUR dog will listen to you when it matters.

Instead of your dog doing his own thing, he will be watching you and focused on you and what you want him to do.

With The Dog Calming Code in place and a solid relationship set up, you’ll find your dog is LISTENING to you, wanting to FOLLOW your lead and TAKE DIRECTION.

And that makes for a much easier dog to train…

REASON #3 – The Dog Calming Code Is Totally Instinctive to Your Dog.

What many people love about The Dog Calming Code is that it makes sense to their dogs.

Imagine actually discovering how to speak your dog’s language…that results in a lot of fun for you both, and a lot of connection.

With this program, your training is not going to be reliant on treats and food (although food treats can certainly be used and come in very handy)

And neither is it based on forcing your dog to change…

Instead The Dog Calming Code communicates to dogs in a way that they will immediately understand and love that they should be listening to you.

You won’t have to explain why to them or train them to understand it because it’s all what they know instinctively. How amazing does that sound?

Of course, your dog may be a little surprised at first to see you speaking his language and may test you on it, but none of it will miss the mark.

It's important to keep this in mind…

Speaking your dog’s language is not like trying to train your dog to do something such as sit in the back seat of a car…that’s a great example of “dog training.”

Rather, it’s the natural way of communicating with your dog based on the way his brain is wired.

In fact, once I share The Dog Calming Code with you, you will start to notice everything I talk about happening when a pack of dogs gets together naturally. They all speak dog!

You’ll be a step ahead of all the other dog owners, able to explain what is really going on…

Another way of looking at it is thinking of it as dog psychology 101—It’s all about tapping into the natural instincts that your dog is born with.

When you see the world through your dog’s eyes… EVERYTHING CHANGES.

You will never see Dog Training the same way ever again.

REASON #4 – The result of The Dog Calming Code Is a Calm Dog.

Picture this…

Soon after putting The Dog Calming Code in place, you’ll notice that your dog is generally more focused on you and is a far calmer.

And because your dog is now focused, watching and listening to you, he is able to switch off and not be so alert and busy the whole time.

All of it seems to make so much sense to your dog, and he is much happier and calmer about life…

The result: Both you and your dog are very happy beings.

As the stress drops away, the frustrations and anxiety disappear, and your dog is more relaxed while at home, on a walk, or while meeting people and other dogs.

Because your dog is moving into a new place of calm, the old crazy energy is a thing of the past.

You have a relaxed dog who listens and is easy to train, and everything just becomes more enjoyable!

REASON #5 – The Dog Calming Code Builds Tolerance.

Last but not least, when your dog is in a chilled-out place over a long period of time, he automatically builds up more tolerance.

Put another way, the Dog Calming Code is the foundation of what I call a ‘Bomb Proof’ Dog. A dog who doesn’t react when something alarming suddenly occurs.

For example, instead of being constantly wound up with far too much emotional and nervous energy—like a coiled spring needing to run it all off every day—your dog will be able to rest and relax.

Of course, at places like the park, he will still be happy to run and play. But, the energy your dog will give off will no longer be nervous, crazy, manic energy.

And, at home, your dog will no longer feel the need to follow you everywhere, always alert—even when he’s lying down and supposed to be sleeping instead.

He will learn to SWITCH OFF properly.

With your dog in a relaxed state, things like a child playing, a squirrel running, or a friend coming over for a visit is far less likely to set your dog off.

Instead, your dog will be focused and relaxed, allowing you to take control of any situation that crosses your path.

And that, my friend, is the powerful effect of The Dog Calming Code.


To get started, I invite you to check out my program The Dog Calming Code.

Check out The Dog Calming Code here!

Don’t forget…

It is NOT more training that your dog needs; Rather it’s the knowledge of how to communicate with your dog that YOU are going to take charge that allows your dog to switch off, relax and calm down.

The Dog Calming Code gives you just that.

I wish you the best as you continue on your dog training journey.

Cheers,

Doggy Dan Signature
~Doggy Dan

Gentle journey for your puppy.

Doggy Dan

Doggy Dan stands out through his “five golden rules” that focus on canine psychology rather than repetitive drills or force. Unlike traditional trainers, he teaches owners to become the “calm leader” their dogs need. Over the last two decades, his methods have helped transform over 125,000 dogs worldwide. As the founder of TheOnlineDogTrainer.com blog and podcast and creator of the Dog Calming Code™, he has become a trusted voice in dog psychology and training. His philosophy is simple: reactive dogs don’t need punishment or endless treats. They need a leader they can trust.

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Two months ago I adopted a 7 year old Morkie, a very nervous but loving little fellow. I tried several different training techniques and even purchased a program that was lengthy and very time consuming before I discovered Doggy Dan. I've been using his program for two weeks and am astounded by the change in my Dexter. He is calmer, more obedient and friendlier to others than I imagined possible. Dan's training is concise. It differs from others I found, Dan trains you to become the leader of your pack through a dog's perspective. I like that the training is specific yet compassionate. This is a program that works if you are consistent. Thanks Doggy Dan!
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Kathy Fore
17 September 2026
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Susie in the UK. I am only 10 days in but took in a 9 yr old emergency rescue from Romania who had been in kennels for 6 years and then had 3 failed foster placements in the UK. Luca is a big powerful mixed breed with huge stress and anxiety and very reactive, he bounded into my home and took over - aggressive with my 2 others, and visitors and pulling and pushing on walks. I thought I couldn't handle him but saw an advert for Doggy Dan on line and signed up - we've had a wonderful turnaround and he is finally decompressing, being polite with my dogs and responds excellently to the time-out if reactive with guests. Walks are much better and all 5 rules are in place. I believe he will continue to improve but only if I remain 100% consistent with him for the rest of his life. He is 9 years old and deserves a happy old age being loved and looked after with no further upsets in his life so fingers and toes are crossed for him
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SoBS Truro
15 September 2026
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I started. The course 3/4 weeks ago. As Dan says you have to work on things if you get stuck. I have a Staffordshire x cane corso who is now six months old. She is very intelligent but sometimes she just doesn’t listen. Doing the five codes I’m finding it’s going pretty well except trying to get her calm so I am persevering with it again with my own space. I have a trainer call shortly which I will ask for advice on this. It’s great also that you can ask anything you’re not sure of on line. It’s so great to have someone there to help. I’m looking forward to having a relaxed girl instead of hyper most of the time as she gets so excited about almost everything. I would truly recommend doggy Dan and just wished I would have come across him much earlier. Thanks again for everything so far.
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Hazel Coad
12 September 2026
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I ❤️ my dog. Such a good girl! 5 Golden rules, really work.
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Victoria van Sommeren
9 September 2026
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This program is amazing!. We have a VERY reactive rescue dog that has bitten his previous owner and as well, myself 3x and my husband 4 x's. He had never been around people or other animals, and had never been walked on a leash. (in fact never run off-leash either, just tied to the front steps). We began with traditional treat-based training with a professional, but the progress was frustrating. A reactive dog does not want treats; it wants comfort. With the 5 Golden Rules and and some of the other training we have received with our subscription, in just 3 weeks, we can let him off leash at the dog park, he has not growled at any stranger, and he has not attacked any other animals. He is still a work in progress, but we see progress!!!! He has become a cuddly, sweet dog and for a greyhound, he even has recall! This program is amazing to say the least. We were at our wits end, but now we have hope.
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susan kent
8 September 2026
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Okay, he says it’s not magic, but the results and the peace in so little time with so little effort sure feels like magic! My 11 month old pup was a 60lb highly reactive, very loud disaster waiting to happen. Now we are both calm, the house is quiet and I don’t live in absolute fear of his reactivity towards others. There’s always still work/training to do of course, but wow are we in a much better place to get on with that!
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Theresia Travers
8 September 2026
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Just started with the 5 rules. It's only been a week and a half and I'm noticing less stress, and a reduction in reactivity. We still have a way to go. But finally something I can work with. I went for the online course.
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Fiona Bower
31 August 2026
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I watched the free Webinar and joined at the end. I am up to No.3 atm and I’m actually feeling hopeful 🤞🏼
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Jackie Grimmer
29 August 2026
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The program is great. I started to see the changes in my cocker spaniel from day one.
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Joy Winnington
18 August 2026
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My Lab mix puppy and I are on Day 3 , but, I do feel a stronger connection. She appears calmer overall / looking forward to consistently following these five rules. Doggy Dan is clear, concise, comprehensive and compassionate . Very pleased with his program. Diane
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Diane Patterson
16 August 2026
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We have an 8 month old Goldendoodle who has fear issues outside the home and gets easily overwhelmed going into panic/flee mode if several triggers coincide (people, loud dog barking and noises like motorcycles/construction). So pleased to find Doggy Dan and seeing positive changes after just two weeks. Feeding time is calm after using the gesture eating and "thank you" when he barks works a treat. I realized I'm babying my dog too much and trying to be his best pal instead of a leader so I'm working hard on that. We've changed to the no pull harness and love that. Doggy Dans video clips really help bring the philosophy together and I love his attitude. He is calm, clear, firm but so kind and loving with dogs and very down to earth and relatable. I've got great help too from the AI coach and the daily emails and videos help keep us on track and feeling positive. We've still got a mountain to climb with our pup but I finally feel hopeful and supported. We'd tried trainers, behavior specialists and all sorts before finding Doggy Dan and this is by far our best investment. Can't recommend you trying this highly enough. Photo of our boy.
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Jackie Ward
13 August 2026
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Absolutely amazing transformation in just a few days. Just need to stick to the 5 Golden rules 🙂
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Martine Adkin
13 July 2026
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I couldn’t believe my dog’s problem resolved completely within a week! Easy but not easy if you are inconsistent with the 5 rules. I highly recommend this method! Somethings don’t seem important or relevant but they are!
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Dawn McCordic
13 July 2026
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I just started my training about 2 weeks ago, and I do mean MY training. My 2 girls are really responding to my changes in how I am relating to them better. Thank you Doggy Dan, I really needed this win, 2 reactive dogs and we have made progress with the 5 golden rules and we have not with anything else. Crystal Gayle the Red Heeler and Sadie the Border Collie.
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Betty Nicholl
11 July 2026
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For three years, I tried every treat-based method and expensive course to stop my large, powerful male dog from pulling on the leash, barking, and stressing out when his energy got too high on our walks. (So while he is a farm dog who enjoys total freedom off-leash on our farm most of the day, on-leash in the city, he totally lost it). He was practically hanging from the leash, two feet in the air (almost strangling himself), always demanding to walk in front and make all the decisions. Absolutely nothing worked—until I found Doggy Dan! 🏆 After just a couple of weeks implementing The 5 Golden Rules, the transformation is absolutely mind-blowing!!! By focusing on connection and calm leadership rather than rigid commands, my dog has FINALLY reconnected with his natural calmness (that has actually always been there inside him) ❤️❤️ When we walk through town now, I look down at my dog walking in a perfect "heel." The leash hangs completely loose, and that loose leash really says it all 👍👍👍 He does not pull, bark, or growl AT ALL when other dogs bark at him!😱 Yes, he looks at them and is interested, but he remains completely calm. We pass shouting people, groups of kids on scooters, and dogs barking aggressively behind gates—he is interested, but he remains entirely unfazed. Just yesterday, we stopped in front of a fence with chickens walking in a garden, and he just stood there watching curiously, staying completely still. And as we walked across a large, grassy schoolyard, we suddenly crossed paths with two rabbits—when I told him to, he immediately sat down. Of course, he was highly interested, but he sat completely, utterly still! I constantly find myself thinking: This can NOT be my dog, LOL! 🐇🐓 Dan refers to himself as a dog trainer, but in my humble opinion he is a dog philosopher. The course is incredibly generous, filled with hundreds of real-life videos from every situation imaginable, offering a massive toolkit for an amazing price. I am so excited to continue this course, so happy about the progress, and so looking forward to the future with this beloved dog of mine. I HIGHLY recommend it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Ingrid-Tove Astrup
8 July 2026
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I've only been working the program for a week and already are seeing some great improvements with an overexcitable, energetic, barking at everything, and fun Maltipoo. I'm focusing on the 5 golden rules and watching the training videos. Thanks Doggy Dan!
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Rebecca Cheney
4 July 2026
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In a matter of days my 5 year old Frenchie is calmer and seems happier, albeit not happy that I'm ignoring him but it works! I live alone so he thinks he should be boss and protect me from every visitor but he didn't even bark at the window cleaner yesterday, just followed him around each window. My life might be my own soon, thank you!
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Shauna
2 July 2026
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The Golden rules i now understand are NOT called GOLDEN RULES FOR NO REASON! WOW , JUST WOW, I WAS DOING ALL 5 WRONG !
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Tim Waldner
2 July 2026
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We have adopted a Poodle and he us very high energy, anxious and insecure. I joined the online program after I watched the free online webinar about the 5 Golden Rules. While watching the webinar all 3 of my dogs ran off barking... I calmly called out "thank you" and they all came back to me.. from that moment I was hooked. I love the fact that we use minimal sound in this technique as I can become anxious and unsure in my tone. I have seen results with the new Poodle and I am exited about our future. Thanks Doggy Dan, you are a gem 👌🐾🐾🐾
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Jane Uprichard
22 June 2026
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The training has been amazing. I've been training dogs in unprofessional situations since the mid 1970's. I've never heard of this philosophy! We have a 4-year-old Great Dane mix who is leash aggressive and hyper-reactive to any noises. This training has been incredible. In a week we've seen dramatic differences in his anxiety - just based on the 5 Golden Rules (we haven't even gotten to the Reactive Dog training yet). My only complaint is the persistent emails to sign up for the Canine Coaching Club - which is a monthly subscription. That's been a lot and it started immediately. Other than that, I highly recommend this training system.
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Kristi Nay
15 June 2026
FREE webinar:

How to Solve Dog Reactivity WITHOUT Food Bribes, Tricks, or Force

dog training to stop unwanted jumping and barking

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