Many training and behavior modification topics are not species specific. These concepts can apply to all types of animals (and sometimes people too!).
Dogs are wonderful in so many ways, but they can also annoy us, damage things, and leave a trail of chaos in their wake! If you find yourself constantly saying “no” to your dog, it can get exhausting. Turn things around by saying “yes” instead, and see how this may be even more effective. Why … Read moreA “Yes” For Every “No”: Alternatives to Problem Dog Behavior
Could your dog be in pain? None of us want that to be the case, but knowing how to identify pain is key to supporting your dog’s well-being. There is No Test for Pain There is no test or diagnostic that your vet can run to definitively rule out pain. This includes bloodwork, fecal or … Read moreNo Test for Pain: What You Need to Know to Care for Your Dog
What is “normal” for your dog, in terms of health and behavior? Does that “normal” represent their optimal wellbeing? Just because something has been going on for a long time doesn’t mean it doesn’t need to be addressed. Photo Credit: SSidde/Pixabay.com “Normal” Doesn’t Always Equal “Okay” For the purposes of this discussion: “Normal” = typical, … Read moreNormal But Not Okay
Random. Out of the blue. Unpredictable. Inconsistent. It is stressful enough when your dog is behaving in a way you’d rather they didn’t. When you can’t predict if or when the behavior will happen, it can range from embarrassing to terrifying. There can be many reasons why a dog’s behavior may be difficult to predict. … Read more“Random” Behavior – Understanding Trigger Stacking
Do you have a shy, anxious, or fearful dog? You’ve probably heard the advice to give them treats to help them overcome their fear. It’s great advice (unlike some of what’s out there…) but there are a few important tricks to using those treats safely and effectively! A Note on Safety If your dog’s behavior … Read moreHelping Your Fearful Dog: The Trick to Treats
Whether it’s advice about cats, dogs, or kids, one suggestion is common: ignore bad behavior. That can seem like a good plan and sometimes it works, but sometimes it backfires. Is “ignore bad behavior” good advice, bad advice, or just one piece of the puzzle? Why Ignore Bad Behavior? Many behaviors are motivated by consequences, … Read moreThe Case AGAINST Ignoring Bad Behavior
Does your dog run from the vacuum, growl at the new puppy, try to bite when you trim their nails, or have some other overreaction to a harmless thing? What’s up with that? You know that the vacuum isn’t a monster, that the puppy is just trying to play, and that nail trims are not … Read moreGet Over It!
Cats and dogs don’t have to fight like… well, cats and dogs. They can live peacefully together and even develop close bonds. But first they need to be safely introduced. Considerations for New Roommates While many cats and dogs can live happily together, not all are suited for it. Consider size and personality when deciding … Read moreIntroducing Cats and Dogs