Many dogs are afraid of other dogs, men, strangers, children, loud trucks, bikes, scooters, skate boards, odd scents, noises, and many more stimuli. I have spent the last 10 years helping my own dogs and many others live happier, less stressful lives. The first thing you need to realize is that you are not alone! […]
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 »
I try not to sound like a broken record, but I do continually hit home the fact that the environment is training your dog. Specifically, the environment is shaping your dogs behavior in small successes each day, each minute. Why is this important? If your puppy barks frequently to get your older dog to interact
Behavior is Shaped by the Environment Read More »
Simply wanting your dog to respond differently to sights and sounds is not enough. In the last Blog, I talked about having a plan, going slow and being in a good emotional place yourself. Please keep in mind, when your dog becomes afraid or anxious his emotional state is responding to one or more triggers
Changing Your Dogs Emotional Response 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
I often visit families with a puppy that is biting much too hard. Puppies use their mouths to play, explore, taste and chew, so it is important that we teach them to use a soft mouth when they touch our human skin. Giving your puppy feedback is essential, so tell your puppy when it hurts,
Sophie with the stranger Sophie, my scottie is clearly concerned about the presence of this stranger near her. Her eye is on him, her tail is up, she is standing rigid and not moving. I quickly asked him to stand still until I could reengage her in her ball. As this worker moved about
A Stranger in My House 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 »
I am not sure who first came up with the phrase “treat and retreat”, Ian Dunbar or possibly Suzanne Clothier but this concept really works! If you are ever in a situation where you are face to face with a growly dog, it is wise not to try to dominate this kind of canine. As
This handsome boy is a character, as he loves all dogs! He adjusted to my home very quickly showing no fear about the new environment. He is very friendly with all my dogs, is crate trained, comes when called and rubs on you like a cat. He is sleeping in his crate and is happiest
Rescue – Small Male Scottish Terrier Read More »
