Evidence-Based Dog Care, Training and Wellness

Force-Free Dog Care · Written by a Certified Trainer

Your dog deserves advice built on science, not dominance myths.

Detailed, honest guides to training, health, nutrition, behavior and breeds by Sarah Whitfield, CPDT-KA. Practical advice that works in real homes with real dogs.


Browse the latest guides
01

Training

Puppy basics, recall, leash manners and clicker work. Force-free methods, no intimidation.

02

Health

Vaccinations, parasites, common illnesses, senior care and first aid. Vet-reviewed advice.

03

Nutrition

Choosing food, portions, allergies, sensitive stomachs and homemade recipes worth cooking.

04

Behavior

Separation anxiety, barking, aggression and reactive dog rehabilitation, step by step.

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SW

Sarah Whitfield

Certified Professional Dog Trainer · CPDT-KA

Sarah has spent the past decade helping puppies and rescue dogs become calm, confident companions through force-free methods. She founded Lilidog to give dog owners the evidence-based guidance she wishes they received at the vet. Read her full story →

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Latest Guides


Clicker Training for Dogs: Fundamentals and First Exercises
Training

Clicker Training for Dogs: Fundamentals and First Exercises

What Is Clicker Training and Why Does It Work? Clicker training is a force-free, reward-based method that uses a small handheld device producing a...

Dog Adoption Guide: What to Know Before Rescuing a Dog
Daily Care

Dog Adoption Guide: What to Know Before Rescuing a Dog

I have worked with hundreds of rescue dogs over the past decade, and I can tell you honestly that dog adoption changed the direction...

Brushing a Dog's Coat: Frequency and Brush Type by Breed
Grooming

Brushing a Dog's Coat: Frequency and Brush Type by Breed

I have worked with hundreds of dogs over the past decade, and one of the questions I hear most often from new owners is...

Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners
Breeds

Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners

Over the past decade, I have helped hundreds of first-time dog owners navigate the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) journey of bringing a dog into...

Dog Body Language: Reading Tails, Ears, Eyes and Posture
Behavior

Dog Body Language: Reading Tails, Ears, Eyes and Posture

After more than a decade of working with fearful, reactive and anxious dogs in Austin, I can tell you that dog body language is...

How Much to Feed a Dog: Portions by Size, Age and Activity
Nutrition

How Much to Feed a Dog: Portions by Size, Age and Activity

One of the most common questions I hear from new dog owners, and honestly from experienced ones too, is simply: how much should I...

Fleas, Ticks and Worms: A Complete Parasite Prevention Guide
Health

Fleas, Ticks and Worms: A Complete Parasite Prevention Guide

Why Parasite Prevention Matters for Every Dog I have spent over a decade working with dogs of every size, breed and temperament, and one...

Leash Training: How to Stop Your Dog From Pulling
Training

Leash Training: How to Stop Your Dog From Pulling

If your daily walks feel more like a tug-of-war than a pleasant stroll, you are not alone. Leash pulling is the single most common...

Dog Toys: Choosing Safe and Enriching Options for Every Stage
Daily Care

Dog Toys: Choosing Safe and Enriching Options for Every Stage

I have spent over a decade working with dogs of every size, breed and temperament, and one thing I tell every client on day...