Dog Training & Behavior Tips
Kind to Dogs, Cold to People? The Myth of Positive Reinforcement and Human Empathy
What if using positive reinforcement with dogs doesn’t automatically make us kind to people? Being skilled in behavior science isn’t the same as being compassionate. Empathy with clients matters just as much as mechanics with dogs and truly humane training must include both. Whether you’re a trainer or a dog guardian, this is a must-read reminder that kindness isn’t a technique, it’s a choice.
“I Don’t Have Time”: When Life Feels Too Full for Dog Training
“I don’t have time” is one of the most heartbreaking things a behavior consultant can hear. Making time before things fall apart is one of the kindest things you can do for your dog and yourself. Behavior struggles are more than just inconvenience. They’re quality of life concerns. And small, doable changes really can make a big difference.
Not Just a Trick: Turning Chin Rests into a Vet-Ready Superpower
Think your dog’s chin rest is solid until the vet walks in?
Discover how the Three D’s of dog training: duration, distance, and distraction, can transform a cute behavior into a powerful tool for vet visits, grooming, and daily care. With real-life examples and step-by-step guidance, this post will help you build a chin rest your dog can confidently rely on in the real world.
No Drama: How to Give Your Dog Ear Drops Without a Fight
Giving ear drops doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. We’ll explore why dogs often resist ear care and offer compassionate, practical strategies to make the process easier. From warming the solution and using syringes to applying drops via cotton balls, small changes can dramatically improve your dog’s comfort.
You Hired a Professional Dog Trainer. Now Let Them Do Their Job!
When you hire a dog trainer or behavior consultant, you’re not just paying for their time, you’re investing in their expertise, methods, and carefully developed process. Yet, many students unknowingly undermine this process by asking their trainer to work outside their area of expertise, change their methods, or skip important steps.
This blog post explores why it’s essential to trust your trainer’s approach, whether it’s using positive reinforcement instead of training collars or following a structured behavior assessment.
Loose Leash Walking: Tips to End Pulling
Loose leash walking can be a challenging skill for many owners and dogs. There is a lot going on when trying to train your dog to walk nicely next to you. First you have to learn to hold the leash and the treats, usually while your dog is pulling you everywhere. Not to mention, your dog’s focus is elsewhere as they sniff every blade of grass and pull towards every dog and stranger they see.