Posted in Behavior & Training

Working in the field of animal behavior and working with aggressive dogs for almost 20 years now, I find it mind boggling for people to think that all dogs can be rehabilitated. I wonder if they think all humans can be "cured" or "fixed" as well? It would be a nice thought, but it's not always realistic. When dogs exhibit aggressive behaviors to… read more

Posted in Behavior & Training

If you are going to be an effective trainer, you need to understand the meaning of correction. A correction is an unpleasant action that happens the moment the dog stops trying to do what you have asked him to do. A correction is not a random act of violence. Good trainers should train their dogs how to control whether or not a correction occurs… read more

Posted in Behavior & Training

This involves learning how to be creative enough to help your dog understand what you what him to do in all contexts. Think of yourself as a teacher and not a leader when training. Your dog is your student and not your subordinate. Become frustrated or angry simply means that you did not do your job right. This is why people feel they need to … read more

Posted in Behavior & Training

It has been well established that personality can be assessed in non-human animals, including dogs. Dr. Samuel D. Gosling gave a wonderful talk at IFAAB about this. He worked with various people and what they did was to review the core measurement issues underlying all attempts to assess personality in nonhuman animals. They were faced with thre… read more

Posted in Behavior & Training

Wow - - what a day. I worked with my terrified Border Collie today and did make progress. I was able to calm him down and pet him (muzzle on) and feel that the dog deserves a chance. Many have recommended euthanizing the dog. I plan on working with him. #2 private was a dog I worked with before as well. Dog-to-dog aggression. The owner has… read more