Does your dog’s energy and playfulness mean they’re perfectly healthy? Not always. Dogs are masters at masking discomfort, often staying active, even increasing their activity, to distract themselves from pain. This post explores why your dog’s boundless energy might not tell the full story, the subtle signs of underlying issues you might be missing, and why addressing their health first is key to effective training.

This blog post tells the story of Beretta, a rescue dog whose challenging behaviors initially appeared to be rooted in severe anxiety and fear. Over time, it became clear that her struggles went deeper, as her reactions to the environment and difficulty with training hinted at an underlying issue. After years of managing her behavior through training, medication, and environmental changes, a veterinary specialist confirmed that Beretta was…

In this blog, we discuss the importance of selecting the right veterinarian and knowing when to seek a second opinion to ensure your dog's health and well-being. I share the story of Oakley, my dog diagnosed with discospondylitis after persistent advocacy and seeking a second opinion, highlighting the value of trusting your instincts as a dog owner. I offer practical steps for choosing a vet, including assessing their communication style, expertise, and ability to address your dog’s unique needs.

The Dog Aging Project (DAP) provides groundbreaking insights into the prevalence and scope of behavioral challenges in dogs. Analyzing data from over 43,000 dogs, this study found that nearly all dogs (99.12%) exhibit moderate-to-serious behavioral issues, ranging from aggression and anxiety to separation-related behaviors and housesoiling. The blog post emphasizes the importance of early recognition and intervention to address these issues. Behavioral problems often reflect deeper emotional, physical, or environmental concerns, requiring a “big picture” approach. Through tools like behavioral assessments, tailored training plans, and collaboration with veterinarians, owners can address their dog’s needs effectively.

Brachycephalic breeds, such as French Bulldogs and Pugs, are becoming increasingly popular, with the French Bulldog recently named the most popular dog breed in the U.S. While their charming, expressive faces appeal to many, these flat-faced breeds often face unique behavioral and medical challenges rooted in their anatomy.