You will need: A leash with a tight fitted collar. (Preferably a slip lead. We don’t want any escapes if they decide to back up quickly. 😄) A highly motivating food, treat, or toy! Getting your dog to climb on something new Start very small by walking up to the new object and putting the treat or toy on the object in order to get the dog just to touch the new object.  Even if it is just with a tongue or nose.  Break and reward! Using the leash as a steering wheel (not a way

We’re so happy to share that we’re officially settled into our new space, and it feels so good to say that! It’s been a labor of love, and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of our community. From donations to helping hands, every bit of encouragement and effort helped make this dream a reality. Thank you, truly, from all of us (two- and four-legged alike)! While we’re still putting the finishing touches on a few things, we’re in, and it already feels lik

Help Dogs Thrive — Join Big Paws as Our New Dog Trainer At Big Paws of the Ozarks, we believe every dog deserves the chance to live a fulfilled, enriched life — and we know that thoughtful, science-backed training plays a huge role in that. As we expand our programs in Northwest Arkansas, we’re looking for a passionate, skilled dog trainer  to join our growing team. Whether you’re experienced in behavior modification, obedience, or canine sports, this is a chance to make a me

This is Colt. He’s named after our new building in Colt Square — and he’s special. Not because of where he came from, but how  he came to us. Colt is the first dog dumped at our new location. Sadly, we know he won’t be the last. One afternoon, a man pulled up in front of our office. He said he’d found a dog on the side of the road two hours away and wanted us to take him. We explained, gently but firmly, that we couldn’t. Our rescue is foster-based, and every available space

Reilly’s journey into dog training began after adopting two rescue dogs, Olga and Pasha, from Big Paws in 2024. After enrolling both in the organization’s board and train program, Reilly became fascinated by the process of building communication and trust between dogs and their humans. Inspired by the transformation he saw in his own pups, he decided to pursue dog training himself. Reilly has been shadowing the Big Paws training team, gaining hands-on experience and learning

October is one of our favorite months of the year — and not just because of the cooler weather, pumpkin treats, and dog costumes (though we love those too!).It’s Subaru Loves Pets Month , and for over six years, our friends at Adventure Subaru  have partnered with us to help change countless dogs’ lives across Northwest Arkansas. This partnership is more than community support — it’s a lifeline. Through Subaru’s Loves Pets  initiative, Adventure Subaru has become one of our m

Every Wednesday at Big Paws of the Ozarks looks a little different. The energy around our office buzzes with happy tails, bright eyes, and lots and lots of treats. Our Rescue Day Training  program is one of the most impactful things we do. Each week, our pawsome  trainers work hands-on with the dogs currently in our rescue — teaching them valuable skills that help them succeed in their future homes. From leash manners to polite greetings, from building confidence to mastering

A year ago, three dogs were left behind in a Rogers home after their owners were arrested. The police told the neighbor it would be...

Matt Newton, Director of Training: Big Paws of the Ozarks Does your dog panic when you leave the house—even just to check the mail?...

For the first time in years, shelters, rescues, and advocates across Northwest Arkansas have come together to form the Northwest Arkansas...

This September, we held our highly anticipated Under Dog Show, and we’re still buzzing with excitement! Hosted at Bentonville Brewing...

When Annie was picked up and brought to a local shelter, she immediately began delivering her puppies. The shelter environment can be a...

Penny's Story: And How We Can Make a Difference Together In the world of animal rescue, there are stories that break your heart and then...

Training your dog the "place" command is one of the most rewarding and useful exercises you can undertake. This versatile command not...

Shannon has always been passionate about working with dogs, at a young age she would walk and bathe dogs for family members and school...

Welcoming a furry friend into your home is not just a joyous experience; it's an act of kindness that can truly change lives. Fostering...

Marshall is extremely passionate about helping dogs and their families live their best lives seeing eye to eye and understanding each...

Feel like you’re getting too much sleep or things are a little too lazy around the house?  It might be a sign that you need a brand new...

Enrichment is a key part of each dog’s life and is defined by participating in activities that stimulate their mind, senses, and natural...