Choosing the right dog breed is a significant first step in easing the transition of a new puppy or adult dog into your household pack. Beware the lure of purchasing a dog based on looks - or size! Both can be misleading. As professional dog trainers with decades of experience, we’d say lack of breed […]
Dogs are pack animals, which means they are happiest when they live in a group. As a result, they establish different levels and layers of relationship within that pack dynamic. Still, when a connection is two one-dimensional, or the “pack” abandons a solo dog for long periods, some dogs experience something we call “separation anxiety” […]
Working with a dog trainer is a wise investment, improving the quality of life for humans and their dogs. The sooner you learn the correct way to work with a puppy or new dog, the faster they will learn basic commands and understand the behavioral expectations in your household. Finding the right dog trainer may […]
It’s true that dogs are genetically programmed to be part of a pack and to bond with their human companions. However, that doesn’t mean a dog of any age feels automatically comfortable with other canines, people, or new situations. In fact, puppies can become anxious, difficult to control, or even aggressive when introduced to anything […]
If you’re heading on vacation and can’t take your dog, you’ll need to start researching and learning more about the dog boarding facilities and other options in your area. Boarding your dog requires great care to make sure your furry friend has access to ample space, room to run, the opportunity to exercise each day, […]
Bringing a new baby into the household is a huge adjustment, and the sooner you prepare for your dog’s adjustment, the better. If you do things right, your baby and your dog enjoy a safe, lifelong friendship. Some dogs accept a new baby into their pack without fuss, but you can never predict how any […]
Dog aggression is more than just aggression; it’s a strong piece of communication. What we read as aggression is actually a dog sending an unambiguous and fluent message. As canine companions and providers, we must learn about the most common types of dog aggression to get to the root of the problem and support our […]
Are you on the fence about whether or not investing in dog training is worth it? We understand. However, after more than 35 years as professional dog trainers, we repeatedly see why professional dog training is important. Not only does it help to foster healthy and positive bonds between your dog and your household, but […]
Is your dog a constant traveling companion? The world has opened up to canines-as-companions in so many ways, and we notice dogs in cars, at cafes, trains, and planes. While this warms our hearts, it is also alarming when we see well-meaning humans putting their dogs at risk. For example, your dog may love having […]
How many times have you thought, “I wished my dog could just speak to me so I knew what s/he’s trying to say?!?” The great news is your dog is speaking to you all the time. The only difference is that dogs use body language, with the support of minor vocalizations. Reading Your Dog’s Body […]
The benefits and rewards of forming a close and connected bond with a dog are impossible, to sum up in words. These faithful and unconditionally loving beings change our lives. That said, canines are a different species, with different bodies, needs, modes of being, body language, and communication styles. As a result, humans can wind up […]
There is so much excitement around selecting a new dog and then welcoming your new companion into your home. That excitement is palpable - very much so when it comes to your sensitive dog. The more you can do to remain calm and establish a strong bond, the easier the transition will be and the […]