Trainers often teach a dog to focus on their handler by using a “watch me” or “look at me” cue. Once this is well conditioned and can be performed without distractions, we can teach the dog an “Auto watch.” Trainers use this behavior when desensitizing dogs to scary stimuli. For example, maybe your dog barks […]
Alternate Behavior Read More »
Because September is Safety month, I wanted to talk a little bit about these controversial collars. pinch collar Do you know which one is actually more dangerous? While the Pinch collar looks barbaric with its long spikes, it will not choke a dog to the point of death. On the other hand, the old fashion
While reading a book in the hospital waiting room last week, I heard these words spoken loudly over the speaker, CODE GREEN, CODE GREEN! Startled, I immediately looked at the staff workers all busy behind the check-in counter. Not one of them looked up, moved or even flinched. It was as though they heard nothing.
Our Small Dog Socialization class has been growing so I would like to enhance the format for each participant. Many small dogs become reactive on the leash and are difficult to walk in the presence of an unfamiliar dog or people. This may be the result of poor socialization, bullying behaviors, genetics, dominant aggression, fear
New Small Dog Leash Lungers Class Read More »
I like to joke with my clients that my three dogs are over the age of 4, no more adolescents! Does this make a difference? Sure, but does it mean I am done training? Not even close! Behavior will continue to improve if you continue working with your adolescent dog, but it will definitely get
When to stop training Read More »
Many clients ask me if they should use a collar or a harness on their dog. In reality, a harness is much safer if it is properly fitted. Many dogs can escape from a poor fitting harness and easily be in danger when near a street. Many dogs will adjust quickly to a harness,
I cannot tell you how many times I have asked my teenage daughter to finish her summer homework. “Later” was the response I received many times. I realized she needed motivation! Knowing she would soon be asking for a new school outfit, I offered to take her shopping once her homework was complete. Funny
Relationships based on Motivation Read More »
Have you ever seen your dog raise his paw when greeting a new dog? Layla arriving at puppy socialization class. How about the wagging tail and relaxed ears? If you look closely you may also see a tongue flick as seen in this photo. Layla a young boxer pup is greeting Cora with a look away,
Looking forward to Outdoor Adventure Class today at the Eastern Prom! This class is about improving our dogs coping skills in different environments. It is not easy for a dog to sit and stay or focus on his handler when exposed to many different distractions. Using a reward based training method, we will set each
Outdoor Adventure Class Begins Today Read More »
Too many people believe you must dominate or be the Alpha dog in the home to co-exist happily with their companion pet. You may have heard that in order to prevent your dog from becoming dominant that you had to: 1) always go through doorways first, 2) always eat before your dog, 3) never allow the
Do you need to dominate your dog? Read More »
