I am often called to a home where a dog has nipped or bitten a child. Parents often admit they have punished the dog for growling in the past. Not all our dogs have grown up with children and some are worried. When there is a language barrier between two species, communication is often misunderstood […]
A Growl is Better Than a Bite Read More »
Dogs with low social skills often become resource guarders as it is very rewarding to them. Zeke, my foster dachshund, was surrendered because he continually fought with another dog in his home. This was particularly sad because he was given up by the family who adopted him as a pup. It was the only home
Once a guarder, always a guarder? Read More »
BIG NEWS!! I am very proud to announce my hard work and continued education has earned me the title ofAssociate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant- ACDBC. I am the only ACDBC south of Bangor, and the only one in Portland, Maine. My desire to better understand dog behavior and behavior problems is on going and I will
Associate Certified Dog Behavior Consultant now available in Portland Maine Read More »
I recently went to a home with a sweet male terrier mix who barked all the time according to the owner. As I approached the front door I realized I was not feeling safe based on the body language and rapid barking which was being sent my way through the screen door. I took a
When I think of unwanted behavior, I think of stress as the two are often related. My goal here is to help you identify your dogs stress signals so you can get them help before this stress causes unwanted behavior. Science clearly states that stress leads to health problems, negatively affect relationships with others and
What Does Stress Look Like? Read More »
When a dog is repeatedly frightened by the same stimuli, and is not ever given a chance to think and feel differently about this stimuli, you will likely see the same reaction long term to this stimuli whenever it presents itself. Systematic Desensitization and Counter Conditioning is the process of learning to think and feel
Have a Plan When Changing Behavior Read More »
When changing your dogs behavior or habits it is best to go slow and keep it simple. Changing habits takes time and while the process may seem overwhelming at times, remember small successes are a big deal! Steps to changing your dogs behavior: 1. Make a plan, put it in writing, including specific detailed goals
Canine aggression will always be an interesting topic discussed among dog lovers. We know conflicts are normal and it is our job as humans to teach young children how to cope or resolve conflicts with other children and adults. We humans are taught to resolve conflict by using our words at a young age, often
Aggression in Dogs Read More »
Have you ever thought about how your dog has 2 trainers in most situations? It is true, both you and the environment are influencing your dogs behavior. Any stimuli in the environment (sounds, smells, people, dogs, objects, etc.) can effect your dogs behavior. Relaxed, Positive Energy Knowing how to use Classical and Operant Conditioning methods
Who is Training Who? Read More »
Many of you have seen or owned a dog that is reactive or barks at other dogs when on a leash. This behavior often gets a dog surrendered to a rescue group because it is very difficult to walk. Unfortunately, many clients have said “I wish I had met you sooner, then I would not
Feisty Fidos – Leash Lungers Read More »
