No, you should not train your dog with a retractable leash. In fact, it’s probably best if you never use one of these devices, because they are an accident waiting to happen. Unfortunately, these potentially treacherous devices are favored by many pet parents. And, even if you don’t use one yourself, you may find yourself […]
Should You Train Your Dog with a Retractable Leash? Read More »
Dog aggression is frequently attributed to specific breeds, a myth that is perpetuated in the media and breed-specific legislation. Unfortunately, once a dog displays aggressive behavior, it’s often the beginning of the end of the animal’s life. Families (justifiably) fear having their children hurt. Shelters and animal control agencies fear placing a potentially dangerous dog
Is Dog Aggression Influenced by Human Behavior? Read More »
As professional dog trainers, we get a lot of questions from family and friends – and, often, total strangers – about how to introduce two unacquainted dogs. Although the process can be fairly straightforward, things get tricky when one (or both) of the dogs have behavioral issues. You may also run into trouble if you’re
A Dog Trainer’s Advice for Canine Introductions Read More »
The overarching intent of dog training is to enhance the relationship between the pet and pet owner. We accomplish this by eliminating unwanted behaviors, encouraging desired behaviors and ensuring the safety of you, your pet and others. What sets an ethical and effective dog trainer apart from our less principled counterparts is how we achieve
The Importance of Decision-Making in Dog Training Read More »
Separation anxiety can be highly frustrating for pet owners – and sometimes for their neighbors as well. Coming home to find your house in disarray time after time can be enough to push you over the edge. This behavioral challenge is the reason that many pet owners cite for placing their pets for adoption or
Dog Trainer Tips for Battling Separation Anxiety Read More »
Dog aggression represents one of the most pressing challenges faced by professional dog trainers and pet owners alike. The challenge of resolving aggressive behaviors can seem overwhelming, especially when the problem disrupts the household. Aggression, more than any other pet training challenge, can generate significant levels of fear for the well-being of family members and
How to Recognize True Dog Aggression Read More »
Dog training is equal parts challenge and reward. Unfortunately, some skills are more challenging than others to teach your pet. The hardest feat of all is teaching your pet not to do something – nipping or mouthing, for example. If your dog is prone to playful biting, you may be tempted to look the other
Dog Training Challenges: How to Stop Biting Read More »
Nobody enjoys talking about it but, if your dog eats poo, it’s important to understand the problem. Our canine companions bring joy and fun to our lives but, let’s be honest, they can have some pretty gross habits. Don’t worry, because coprophagia is a fairly common problem and – in most cases – an easy
Coprophagia: Why Does My Dog Eat Poo? Read More »
If you have an aggressive dog, the situation can dominate your life. Aggression goes beyond unwanted or annoying behavior, posing a real threat of danger to humans and other animals. Canine aggression is the most commonly cited reason for surrendering dogs and for euthanasia in the shelter. It’s also the most common reason that
Can Aggressive Dog Training Help You? Read More »
Dog training specialists recommend teaching your dog to come on command – also known as recall on command – at the earliest possible time. Although all dog training components are important, the recall command is crucial to your pet’s safety as well as your peace of mind. Unfortunately, teaching your pet to come when called
Dog Training Basics: Recall on Command, aka “Come” Read More »
