Puppy Socialization Essentials
Socialization is one of the most important parts of raising a happy, confident, and well-adjusted dog — and Puppy Socialization Essentials is your complete guide to doing it right! This practical and positive handout from Courteous Canine, Inc. helps puppy parents understand how to introduce their pups to the world in safe, joyful, and rewarding ways. To a young puppy, everything is new — [...]
To Crate or Not to Crate
By Angelica Steinker, M.Ed., C.D.B.C, CAP2 designed by Kimberly "Kim" Archer, CPDT-KA, CTDI It has become a popular notion to crate dogs, especially during adolescence to encourage a reinforcement history with people rather than the environment. However, is keeping a dog crated for 23.5 hours a day appropriate? This article does not aim to exclusively answer any of the questions posed but [...]
Being Wrong is Right
Loving Being Wrong Turns out that humans have a huge problem-- we love to be right. Unfortunately, this tendency can be dangerous and actually causes serious tragedies and even death, according to Being Wrong: Adventures in the Margin of Error author Kathryn Schulz. Schulz explains how planes crash as a result of a pilot refusing to admit error. As Schulz delves into the topic you [...]
Is Your Dog Bored?
Is Your Dog Bored? Enrich Your Dog’s Life! By Kimberly Archer, Dog Behavior Technician Have you ever wondered what a day is like through your dog’s eyes? You may wake up, have breakfast, catch up on the news, do work, socialize with coworkers, relax with your partner, eat dinner, watch TV or read a book, and maybe even do some more socializing at a [...]
Say “No” To Dog Parks: Here’s Why & Better Alternatives
Say “No” To Dog Parks: Here’s Why & Better Alternatives By Kimberly Archer Dog Behavior Technician As a dog parent you just want the best for your pup, and as such most of us want to provide our dog with a rich social life. The easy way to do this is to regularly take your dog to the dog park... or is it? Though dog [...]
The Sharing Game
The image above is an advanced version of the game, your coach will help you find the ideal starting point. By Angelica Steinker, M.Ed., PCBC-A, AABP-DBCT, CDBC, CAP2 Please note that if your dogs have a history of fighting, do not play the sharing game without the guidance of a professional. Safety is always first if you have any inkling your dogs may even become [...]
Understanding Dog Consent
Understanding dog consent is an essential part of building trust, safety, and positive relationships with our dogs. While dogs may not use words, they communicate constantly through body language. As pet parents, learning to recognize and respect these signals allows us to create interactions that feel safe and empowering rather than stressful or confusing. Dogs communicate consent through movement, posture, and expression. A dog saying [...]
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 [...]
Do You Want to do More with Your Dog?
Do You Want to do More with Your Dog? Dog s everywhere are taking advantage of a titling organization called Do More with Your Dog (https://domorewithyourdog.com/) to get new ideas for trick training and to get recognition for teaching their dogs new and fun tricks. Dog and teams can earn trick dog titles and get certificates for their achievements. Why should you train your dog [...]
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 [...]
