My Furry Valentine Is Cincinnati’s Pet Adoption Mega Event

All too often puppies and dogs find their ways into shelters, for many reasons, often for no fault of their own. They are the victims of circumstances beyond their control, like an illness or death in the family, divorce, growing family, family relocation, or improper training and preparation from owners.

Dog Training To Prevent Door Dashing

It was to be the second time I was helping a friend solve her dog’s door dashing problem. We were teaching her dog to lay down on a rug several feet from the door, and remain in that position, before we would open it. The ultimate goal: her dog would go to the rug on […]

Kids And Dogs: A Bite Prevention Tip

I’m holding a parent/child bite prevention and dog training class on teaching Dog Super Heroes (ages 6 to 10) at The Dog Studio February 1. Please click here to register: http://goo.gl/szzw8I

Dog And Pet Training Tip: Teach It As If You Are Teaching A Trick

My challenge to you as your pet’s teacher (no matter what kind of animal your pet is): teach every behavior as if you are teaching a trick with lots of positive reinforcement.

Research: Why Use Positive Reinforcement In Dog Training

I have long been an advocate for using the most positive strategies for managing and modifying behavior because I have seen firsthand the difference in how that approach has helped to not only set myself and my pets up for success, but also the impact it has had on our relationship. And I have seen […]

Winter Cold Weather Safety Precautions For Your Dog

With the frigid Winter temperatures outside today, I wanted to remind you of some safety tips for your dog.

Tips For Preventing Resource Guarding By Puppies And Dogs

The other day I saw a scenario I have seen before. A golden retriever was laying on the ground working on a stuffed Kong. He was perfectly content, with relaxed body muscles, until the moment a human walked up to take his possession away.

Dog Training Lessons From Dave Kroyer

I am always on the look out for opportunities to learn from experts in training through positive reinforcement. And I’ve got to say, the two days that I spent in Columbus at PosiDog taking a course from internationally renowned trainer Dave Kroyer were absolutely invaluable.

Positive Reinforcement Consequences In Dog Training

Let’s talk about consequences. That is, after all, the essence of how animals operantly learn whether or not a behavior is worth repeating or not. If a behavior serves to get the animal something of value (from the animal’s perspective), then that behavior will be repeated and even strengthened.

Things To Consider Before Giving A Christmas Puppy

It is that time for my annual list of considerations to think about BEFORE giving a Christmas or Hannukah puppy or dog gift… Here are just a few reasons why a surprise pet during the holiday season is not the best idea: