Many dogs get a reputation for being dog aggressive, when they are IMG_1590simply responding to adolescent dogs with rude behavior. My foster beagle was one of those very rude adolescent greeters who invades other dogs space without an invitation.
You are NOT invited Read More »
Clients often say their dog bit without warning, however if you understood dogs body language, you would have seen signs that your dog was worried prior to the bite. Signs of Stress: Head lowered Tail tucked Lip licking Panting and Pacing barking Excessive salivation Ears pulled to the side or way back Hiding behind the
Bite Prevention – Warning signs Read More »
Socializing puppies can be confusing. However, science tells us that puppies who are exposed to many different environments in a positive way, grow up to be social, relaxed adult dogs. Puppies who grow up in an outside pen, and do not experience indoor environments until 8 or 9 weeks of age, will be more fearful and skittish as they mature in a home. While these puppies can often overcome their fears, it takes time and patience.
Social Play Behaviors in Puppies and Adult Dogs Read More »
Management, as it relates to dog training keeps everyone safe. Management, does not teach your dog a behavior, in fact it often creates frustration and increases arousal. Using forms of management are useful when you need to prevent conflict, such as putting your dog in the bedroom when guests come over. Using effective management tools,
Dog Training vs Management Read More »
If humans better understood dogs body language then we would have less dogs resorting to a bite when they feel stressed or threatened. We see several cues that this scared boy does not want to be touched. Signals that are asking for distance are often very subtle.
Level 1 distance Cues:
1. Dogs body is leaning away from the approaching hand.
2. Dogs paw is raised in a submissive manner.
3. Head is moving away asking for increased distance.
4. Eyes are avoiding the stranger
5. Mouth is closed, rather than open and relaxed.
5 Body Postures: A Dog is Asking For Space Read More »
On a recent trip, I found myself in a nice hotel lobby visiting friends. I decided it was time for “goodbyes” so I headed for the elevator. When the door opened, there were three rather imposing-looking men standing along the back wall. I froze for a second! Do I get in and turn my back
Fight or Flight Response in Dogs? Read More »
Do you own a dog that does not act “normal” when he sees another dog on leash? Many dogs do not have good coping skills to greet another dog when confined by a leash. You may describe this type of dog as fearful, hyper vigilant, aggressive, reactive, out of control, barks all the time,
Why is my Dog Lunging on the Leash? Read More »
Many of you have read Karen Pryer’s book, Don’t Shoot the Dog It is an educational book for parents as well as dog owners. After 20 years, Karen explains how the use of jackpots can work when used effectively. The below insert is straight from Karen’s Blog and is worth reading: Remember, though, that no one
Don’t Shoot the Dog – Jackpots Revised Read More »
Why is my dog so aggressive to other dogs? This can usually be diagnosed with a detailed history: no play ever, hereditary, mother was sick or a guarder, or over socialized with aggressive or rough playing dogs. Cycle of On-Leash Aggression (created problem from humans), as described in the Culture Clash, by Jean Donaldson, “The Bully
Dog Aggression and Communication Signals Read More »
Interesting study reported in Psychology Today. I am not surprised by the findings — just further confirmation of my Training approach. Judy Moore The Effect of Training Method on Stress Levels in Dogs | Psychology Today Discipline-based training increases stress levels in dogs. At a dog training seminar that I attended recently I
Positive Reinforcement Training is Best Read More »
