The Treat Hierarchy Game We all have our favorite foods, including our dogs. While some dogs seem to want to eat everything, others can be very picky. What they both have in common is that there is at least one treat that they value above anything else. Why is this important? When working with a dog that cowers, growls, barks,…
Changing the Stigma of Muzzles Why dogs wear them and what owners want you to understand. As a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, I regularly work with clients whose dogs have acted aggressively towards, or severely bit, a person or another animal. Some of the animals have even died as a result of their injuries. While it is at first hard…
This article was published in the IAABC Fall Journal of 2018 and can also be found at https://fall2018.iaabcjournal.org/2018/10/25/from-foes-to-friends-si-jeter/ BACKGROUND Si is an approximately 6-year-old domestic short haired tabby cat. He was found as a stray when he was about a year old. At the time, our home consisted of two dogs and two other cats. Si instantly snuggled with the…
As a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, I talk with many people about different methods used to train their dogs. Being a trainer that works on scientifically supported methods of building confidence, creating replacement behaviors, and decreasing anxiety and aggression with reward-based training, I am firmly against any use of force and intimidation. I often hear the following comment from people:…