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 […]
Tight Spaces Can Cause Dogs To Growl
Tight spaces can cause dogs to growl. Just ask Ginger. The other night she was resting in the darkened, narrow hallway just outside her human mom’s closed bedroom door. During the day when she is resting in the open, first floor living space and her young human brother approaches, her body language clearly shows she […]
A Quiz For Kids On Dog Body Language
I see children all of the time who love having a dog a part of their family. I also see many dogs that are uncomfortable and often do not feel safe around kids. That is why I think it is so important to teach kids that part of being a good dog friend is understanding […]
When Rolled Over, Does Your Dog Always Want A Rub?
There are so many different circumstances when I have seen a dog roll over to expose his belly. At night time, my Dawson often jumps next to me on the sofa only to roll over in a total state of relaxation and will stay in that position for as long as I will continue to […]
Teach Kids NO Dog Hugs
Hi Parents, A little reminder…dogs in general do not enjoy getting big bear hugs.
Tips For Helping Your Dog Feel Safe
The other day I had an appointment for a dog that would react by trying to escape and hide, having an elevated heart rate, stiffened muscles, lowered tail, inability to take food. As soon as I walked in the door, he bolted from one place to another before running into his crate at the far […]
2020 Dog Training New Year’s Resolutions
Each year I publish some tips for dog training New Year’s resolutions, often with some changes. Here are a few ideas for 2020.
Fearful Dogs And Crowded Places
I have seen it happen so often…very well intentioned people walking their dog through a crowded event thinking they are helping their favorite pet overcome fears by getting Fido used to being around lots of humans and other stimulus.
Kids And Dogs: Eating In Peace
This photo always makes me shutter. There are so many potential negative outcomes from allowing little children (really anyone of any age) to be hovering over a dog while eating…adding to that having little hands intruding on a dog’s resource by reaching into the bowl from which the dog is eating. This can make a […]
Communication Matters
I have long admired Leslie McDevitt, MLA, CDBC, CPDT, and have read her book, Control Unleashed, several times. The first time being early in my career, and it had a lot of influence on me. Leslie teaches how to use games and communication to affect behavior change, and build confidence, trust and focus in the […]