A few weeks ago, I issued this challenge: If you think you have a dumb or stubborn dog, instead of labeling your dog, hold yourself responsible for creating an environment that motivates your pet to want to learn what you are teaching.
To me, that is such an important challenge. It speaks to the way I see training. We always have to be aware that all animals (whether dogs, birds, elephants or people) are behaving for a reason. That reason could have to do with some underlying medical reason, stress, avoidance, or the opportunity for something positive and valued. [Read more…] about When Dog Training Cues Break Down…