Cognitive Dog Training
Another forward thinking blog by Pam Hogle. Cognitive Dog Training invites readers to look beyond traditional training methods and explore how dogs think, learn, and make decisions. In this article, renowned trainer and educator Pam Hogle introduces a thoughtful approach that emphasizes mental engagement, problem-solving, and intentional learning. Rather than focusing on mechanical repetition, this perspective encourages dogs to actively participate in the learning process. [...]
Dog Barking: Seek First to Understand, Then Seek to Be Understood
Barking Is Communication, Not Misbehavior Dog Barking: Seek First to Understand, Then Seek to Be Understood reframes barking as communication rather than a problem to stop. Barking is one of the most natural ways dogs express needs, emotions, and reactions to their environment. When we pause to ask why a dog is barking, we gain valuable information. That understanding allows us to teach calm, quiet [...]
Why Prong Collars Hurt
Thank you Eileen Anderson for writing an informative blog on the physics of a prong collar. Please see additional note at the bottom of the post. Dog guardians searching for effective leash solutions are often told that prong collars are a “gentler” alternative to traditional collars—but a closer look reveals a very different reality. Why Prong Collars Hurt is not a matter of opinion or [...]
Understanding Dog Vocalizations
Dogs Communicate Through Sound Understanding Dog Vocalizations begins with recognizing that dogs use sound as a primary form of communication. Barking, growling, and whining allow dogs to express emotions, intentions, and needs. When we listen to these sounds instead of reacting to them, we gain insight into our dog’s inner world and can respond more effectively. The Many Meanings of Barking Barking comes in several [...]
Do Dogs Have a Negativity Bias?
This is a fascinating article by Linda Case on Negativity Bias and how it probably also applies to dogs. This article helps support the need for positive reinforcement based training! Humans are wired to notice what goes wrong faster than what goes right. But what about our dogs? Do Dogs Have a Negativity Bias? This question matters for how dogs experience the world and process [...]
The “Your Turn, My Turn” Sharing Game
The “Your Turn, My Turn” Sharing Game: Teaching Dogs to Share Safely The “Your Turn, My Turn” sharing game is designed to teach two dogs that taking turns with food, toys, and human attention is safe, fair, and even fun. This cooperative dog training exercise helps prevent tension, reduces competition, and builds positive emotional responses around shared resources—all while strengthening trust between dogs and their [...]
Understanding Pain in Dogs
Understanding Pain in Dogs: Recognizing the Signs and Taking Action Understanding pain in dogs is essential for protecting their health and quality of life. Dogs rarely vocalize pain unless it is severe. Because of this, discomfort often goes unnoticed. Pain may only become obvious after behavior or performance changes appear. Subtle signs often provide the first clues. These may include decreased activity, reluctance to train, [...]
Reducing Stress During Dog Walks with Dog Sports
Reducing Stress During Dog Walks with Dog Sports Reducing stress during dog walks can be easier when dogs have healthy outlets for their energy, focus, and emotions. For dogs that bark, lunge, or become overwhelmed on walks, dog sports can provide valuable mental and physical enrichment while helping build confidence. Scent games are one excellent option. Sniffing encourages dogs to focus on one activity and [...]
Managing a Reactive Dog on Walks with Positive Strategies
Managing a Reactive Dog on Walks with Positive Strategies Managing a reactive dog on walks can feel overwhelming, but thoughtful planning can make outings calmer and more successful. This guide shares practical ways to reduce exposure to triggers while helping your dog feel safer and more confident outside. One effective strategy is choosing quieter times of day. Early mornings, late evenings, or less busy weekday [...]
The future of behavior medication?
A great blog by The Dog Zombie We don’t actually know how behavior medications work. We know how they change the operations of cells — for example, we know facts like “this medication makes cells slower to recycle this particular chemical.” But we don’t have a good idea of how those cellular-level changes result in behavior-level changes. We don’t know how these medications make individuals [...]
Understanding Dog Displacement Behaviors and Training Frustration
Understanding Dog Displacement Behaviors and Training Frustration Dog displacement behaviors can appear when a dog feels stressed, uncertain, conflicted, or overwhelmed during training. Behaviors such as sudden sniffing, freezing, looking away, licking, jumping, or leaving the area may provide valuable information about how a dog is coping with the situation. It can be easy to mistake these responses for stubbornness or a lack of attention. [...]
Getting a Second Dog – Helping Your First Dog Say, “Yes”
Introducing a Second Dog to Your Household A great article/post by Sonya Bevan. Introducing a second dog can be exciting, but the process should move at a pace that helps both dogs feel safe and comfortable. A successful introduction is about more than simply putting two dogs together and hoping they become friends. Thoughtful management, supervision, and positive reinforcement can make a major difference. Start [...]
