How the 3 Buckets System Works

Most dog problems aren’t about "bad behaviour." They are about something missing.

The 3 Buckets system helps you identify what your dog needs most right now, and we start there.

Instead of guessing or trying to fix everything at once, we focus on the most "empty bucket" that is causing the bulk of the problems.

For puppies ages 10 weeks to 16 weeks of age, when the right bucket is filled, behaviour changes faster and easier.

You don't need more rules; you need a roadmap that helps you solve this puzzle so that you get the dog of your dreams.

A happy dog and owner sharing a playful moment in a sunlit park with warm autumn colors.
A happy dog and owner sharing a playful moment in a sunlit park with warm autumn colors.
As Cathy always says, Fun really does come first. Life with my dog feels so much easier now!

Anna K. from Ontario

The Three Things That Matter Most

These are the three buckets we look at when figuring out what a dog needs most.

Fun Bucket

Fun (The Joy of Partnership)

  • THE REALITY: Your dog is distracted, disconnected, or seems to care more about the squirrel in the yard than the person holding the leash.

  • THE FIX: We use silly, "squeaky" games to strengthen your relationship. This is where you let your guard down and your dog learns that you are the most important person in their world.

  • THE RESULT: A dog that listens because they want to and because being with you is the best part of their day.

Calm Bucket
Move Bucket

Calm (The Cuddle Foundation)

  • THE REALITY: The "Land Shark." Constant nipping, jumping, and a puppy that doesn't sleep at night.

  • THE FIX: We teach you and your dog how to find your calm, switch off and find their "brakes." Through simple and uber powerful games, we show your pup the value of how calm, quiet relaxation feels amazing too.

  • THE RESULT: THE SNOOZE FACTOR. The path to a dog that finally settles in your recliner or curls up at your feet so you can both finally get some rest.

Move (Adventure Partner)

  • THE REALITY: The "freight train" leash-puller that makes you want to hide at home.

  • THE FIX: THIS COMES LATER. We never put a "hot mess," hyper puppy at the end of the leash. Experience tells us it is far more effective to build the focus and connection at home first.

  • THE RESULT: COTTAGE COMPANION. A dog you can take to the cottage, campground, RV grounds, the lake, or to the next AirBnB without the fear, stress or embarrassment.

DOG MAGIC

You can use the 3 Buckets system on your own or with added guidance.

Everyone starts with the 7-Day Reset.
That’s how you stop guessing and figure out which bucket your dog needs first.

Once you know where to start, we recommend the Calm or Fun e-books.
These are simple, five-minute games you can use right away.

For those who want more help and live feedback, workshops come next. Progress builds from there.

black and white short coated dog playing red ball on black carpet
black and white short coated dog playing red ball on black carpet
a dog running with a frisbee in its mouth
a dog running with a frisbee in its mouth
man in white polo shirt and blue denim jeans holding brown dog
man in white polo shirt and blue denim jeans holding brown dog
A golden retriever puppy walks on a leash outdoors.
A golden retriever puppy walks on a leash outdoors.
white long coated small dog on blue textile
white long coated small dog on blue textile