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Sit. Stay. Heel. All-Star Dog Training Helps Dogs Become Well-Behaved Companions
If your dog treats commands like sit, stay, and heel more like gentle suggestions, you’re not alone. Michael O’Donnell, Owner of All-Star Dog Training, joined Charlotte Today to share tips on how small, consistent training sessions can make a big difference.
O’Donnell brought along, Champ the Retriever, who has been busy making headlines as the official tee retriever for NC State Football and the Bat Dog for the Durham Bulls Minor League Baseball team. Over the weekend, Champ even performed the ceremonial puck drop at the NC State outdoor hockey game.
When it comes to training, O’Donnell says short, consistent sessions are key. “Five to ten minutes a day can totally change your dog’s behavior,” he says. “And always reward the good stuff.”
Another tip? Place boards. These help teach boundaries, focus, and calmness, giving dogs a clear understanding of what’s expected while reinforcing self-control.
For owners ready to take their dog’s training to the next level, All-Star Dog Training offers a variety of programs at its 6,000-square-foot facility in Ballantyne. Programs focus on everything from basic obedience to advanced skills, tailored to each dog’s personality and needs.
The All-Star Dog Training logo honors Ripken, Champ’s full-blooded brother and a beloved former Bat Dog, who made appearances for the Carolina Hurricanes, Savannah Bananas, and Carolina Panthers before his passing last New Year’s Day.
Dog lovers can follow Champ’s adventures on social media at @ChampTheRetriever and learn more about training programs at allstardogtraining.com
On the show today, we learned… the right tools, guidance, and a little patience, your dog can go from “gentle suggestion” to “obedience superstar.”

