Muzzle Training
Canine muzzle training games to play with your dog.
The Neurological Benefits of Counter Conditioning Leash Reactive Dogs
by Drayton Michaels Counterconditioning and desensitizing dogs when on leash also has neurological benefits © Can Stock Photo/Amaviael The Neurological Benefits of Counter Conditioning Leash Reactive Dogs focuses on creating new and better associations for dogs on leash. When dogs face fearful or stressful stimuli, helping them feel less stressed and less fearful is crucial. A positive association may develop, or at least [...]
Talking to Dogs
by Pam Hogle Photo by Deni Elliott A newly published study finds that dogs pay attention to both the way we talk to them and to what we say. Alex Benjamin and Katie Slocombe’s ‘Who’s a good boy?!’ Dogs prefer naturalistic dog‑directed speech looked at what they term “dog-directed speech,” or DDS, which is similar in tone and affect to baby talk. Their canine test subjects were all adult [...]
Thunderphobia in Dogs
Thunderphobia is a serious fear of thunderstorms. It can make a dog’s life extremely difficult. Many dogs suffer more than people realize. Research shows that at least 20% of dogs experience noise phobias, including thunderphobia. With roughly 80 million dogs in the United States, the number affected is enormous. Moreover, the problem may be even larger. Dogs who fear fireworks often also fear thunder and [...]
Quality of Life for Blind/Deaf Dogs
Understanding the quality of life for blind and deaf dogs is important. Many people assume these dogs suffer. However, this assumption is often incorrect. Dogs experience the world through far more than sight and sound. Therefore, blind and deaf dogs can still live happy and fulfilling lives. The full article (linked below) explores how people measure quality of life. It also explains why sensory loss [...]
The Opposite of Force
The concept of choice has become extremely popular in positive reinforcement–based dog training. Many trainers use the word often, and it sounds appealing. Choice feels like the opposite of force, so it seems humane and empowering for dogs. However, the full article explores why this idea is more complex than it first appears. In some training setups, “choice” can involve situations where the dog is [...]
Teaching Deaf (and Blind) Dogs to Use Their Mouths Gently
Read the full article By Debbie Bauer HERE Teaching Deaf (and Blind) Dogs to Use Their Mouths Gently is an important topic for anyone living with deaf or blind/deaf dogs. Many guardians notice rough mouthing in puppyhood and adolescence. This behavior is normal, but it must be guided early. Dogs use their mouths to explore, play, and communicate. Because of this, they need help learning [...]
How to Teach Your Deaf (and Blind) Dog to Wake Up Gently
Understanding the Goal The article How to Teach Your Deaf (and Blind) Dog to Wake Up Gently explains how to help dogs with hearing or vision loss wake in a calm and confident way. Many people worry that these dogs may react strongly when startled, yet most respond well when they learn that touch predicts something pleasant. The author encourages caregivers to shape these positive [...]
Dogs Are Better Partners to Humans Than to Other Dogs
The article Dogs Are Better Partners to Humans Than to Other Dogs explores why domestic dogs often collaborate more effectively with people than with members of their own species. The discussion centers on research comparing cooperative problem-solving skills in dogs and wolves. While wolves performed well on a task requiring two animals to work in unison, the dogs struggled, prompting questions about what cooperation looks [...]
With Her Tail between Her Legs
Rethinking Tail Position in Dogs The article With Her Tail between Her Legs challenges the common belief that a tucked tail always signals fear or discomfort. Many people assume this posture reveals stress, but the author shows that this cue is not always so simple. Tail position can reflect many emotions, and interpreting it correctly requires context. Why a Tucked Tail Isn’t Always Fear The [...]
A Milestone for Clara: Socialization Work Pays Off
Overview of “Socialization Work Pays Off” The article Socialization Work Pays Off highlights the powerful impact of thoughtful exposure and confidence-building experiences on a sensitive dog learning to navigate the world. The story follows Clara, a dog who began life with significant fear and stress, yet continues to make meaningful progress through patient, structured socialization. Growing Confidence Through Gradual Exposure Clara’s caregiver has invested time [...]
Reel It In – Why I Don’t Like Retractable Leashes
The article Reel It In – Why I Don’t Like Retractable Leashes outlines the many reasons why experienced trainers and behavior professionals prefer to avoid retractable leashes. Although these devices appear convenient, the author explains how they create safety concerns, encourage poor leash manners, and reduce a handler’s ability to respond quickly in emergencies. Why Retractable Leashes Create Risk A core issue highlighted in Reel [...]
