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 »
Impulse control, hyperactivity, reactivity and arousal are all topics discussed in today’s symposium on “Living on the edge.” If you have attended any of my reactive dog classes you would have heard me use these terms and how they effect your dogs emotional state. Today’s topics included many practical methods of incorporating daily routines and
Conference Day 2 – Reactivity in Dogs Read More »
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 »
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 »
Looking forward to our positive classes today held at the Eastern Prom. Hope some of our Alumni will be able to join us for the Feisty Fido class as we need good distraction dogs! For many rescue dogs who have spent months or years practicing this unwanted reactive behavior, learning to not be reactive on
Outdoor Feisty Fido Class Today Read More »
