Dog Training & Behavior Tips
Why Your Dog is Still Pulling on Leash
Many dogs struggle with loose leash walking, even after consistent training, the right tools, and professional help. We’ll look at why some dogs continue to pull despite doing everything “right,” and what might really be going on when progress stalls. We’ll review subtle signs that something deeper could be affecting your dog’s ability to walk comfortably, and offers a different way to move forward when training alone isn’t enough.
When Thunderstorms Hurt: Understanding the Link Between Pain and Phobia in Dogs
This blog post explores the connection between discospondylitis, a painful spinal condition in dogs, and the sudden development of thunderstorm phobia in three case studies, including my own dog, Oakley. Diagnostic challenges, including the limitations of X-rays, are discussed. Treatment, involving antibiotics, pain management, and reduced activity, led to behavioral improvements in all three dogs, though recovery timelines varied.
Is Your Dog’s Car Anxiety a Sign of Pain?
We explore how a dog’s discomfort during car rides may not just be anxiety but a sign of physical pain or discomfort. Dogs experiencing stress during car travel often undergo subtle strain from the vehicle’s movement, needing to make constant balancing adjustments that can exacerbate any underlying pain, particularly in dogs with joint or muscular issues…
When Dog Training Isn’t Enough - a Dynamic Dog Case Study
The case study of A, a 2.5-year-old Feist mix, illustrates how persistent behavior issues often have deeper, underlying causes. Despite extensive training, A continued to struggle with aggression, pulling on walks, and inconsistent eating. A key observation of A's unusual hind-leg skipping led to further investigation. This was when a Dynamic Dog Assessment, an approach that considers the whole dog's physical health, behavior, and environment, revealed subtle discomfort signals that changed A’s life.
How Pain Can Lead to Undesirable Dog Behavior (And What You Can Do About It)
We explore the often-overlooked connection between pain and undesirable behaviors in dogs. It provides a comprehensive guide on recognizing the subtle signs of pain, such as changes in sleep patterns, mobility, and social interactions. By understanding how pain can impact a dog's behavior, owners can take proactive steps to improve their dog's well-being. The article includes practical advice on tracking symptoms, consulting with veterinarians and Dynamic Dog Practitioners, and managing pain effectively…