“If we can’t manage it, we can’t change it.” ~ Michael Shikashio, CDBC with Aggressive Dog. This is a conversation I have with all of my behavior case dog training clients…for these very reasons. Aggressive dog behavior is like any other behavior that is strengthened by reinforcement. If it works to get a consequence of value to the animal, it will continue and even strengthen over time. [Read more…] about If We Can’t Manage It, We Can’t Change It
dog body language
Parents, Please Teach Kids, Do Not Hug Your Family Dog
Often kids mean well with their interactions with your dog (or other dogs) but they can do things – like hugging – that can cause dogs to feel uncomfortable. A lesson for parents of a kids and a dog: please teach your children this important relationship building lesson – DO NOT HUG YOUR FAMILY DOG. It is not only about dog bite prevention, but also about helping to strengthen your dog’s relationship with your children in the long term. [Read more…] about Parents, Please Teach Kids, Do Not Hug Your Family Dog
Why Is Your Dog Stubborn?
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard the complaint, “My dog is stubborn.” It seems to be an epidemic among the canine species and apparently it is easily spread from one household, one animal to another. But, it also apparently mutates. A stubborn dog could be one that stays standing or even lunges on the leash when asked to sit. A stubborn dog could be one that continues to sniff a flower or dig in the dirt when being called to come. Or a stubborn dog could be one that puts on the brakes, refusing to move in the direction you are trying to walk. Why is your dog stubborn and what can you do to stop it (at least in that moment)? I’ll talk more about that in this post. [Read more…] about Why Is Your Dog Stubborn?
Parents: You Are Always Modeling Behavior
Parents, it is important that you remember, you are ALWAYS modeling behavior for your child to learn. The way that your child sees you behaving around others is very likely to be repeated. When you do things to or around your dog (or other non-human animal), your son or daughter may end up doing that too. To help your child be someone who your dog will want to spend time around, model and teach your child instead what he/she can do that will give your dog reason to feel comfortable, safe and happy. (Please keep reading to learn how you can see that your dog is or is not feeling that way.) [Read more…] about Parents: You Are Always Modeling Behavior
Holding A Successful Dog Play Date
Playing is such a great for form of enrichment, exercise and practice of social skills. That is…so long as it is good, healthy play. If it isn’t a positive experience for both dogs or puppies, it could be teaching and strengthening behaviors you don’t want to see. And, be aware that, just like with human kids, things can change quickly and unpredictably. In this post, I will talk about holding a successful dog play date including sharing tips for recognizing dog body language, good play as well as tips for how you can help to make it as safe and fun as possible. [Read more…] about Holding A Successful Dog Play Date
How To Greet An Unknown Dog
There has been a lot published about the subject of how to greet an unknown dog. Many written with kids and dogs in mind, and dog bite prevention. Ask permission from the handler. Ask permission from the dog. Allow the dog to approach you. Stand sideways, present your fist or palm, and let the dog sniff you first. These are all generally good tips. I wanted to delve into this further to share more information. [Read more…] about How To Greet An Unknown Dog