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Author: Almudena Ortiz Cue

How to Manage Prey Drive and Build Trust

Posted on May 23, 2025May 23, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

I’m working with Jim, a soft-spoken gentleman, and his lively Border Collie mix, Spark. Jim called me because Spark has been chasing the chickens whenever they roam outside their coop. Jim’s goal? Stop the stalking and chasing—plain and simple. As a first-time dog owner, Jim is still learning the ropes of “dogness.” Working with Spark…

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Choosing Kindness Over Fear: A Delivery Day Lesson

Posted on May 23, 2025May 22, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

Today, I’m waiting for a home delivery. Both dogs are crated in my office as requested. When the delivery person knocks, Rio immediately starts barking—curious and frustrated she can’t say hello. Deuce joins in once he hears the commotion. I pause, then enter calmly, praising them for being quiet. But Rio starts barking again. I…

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What Dogs Teach Us About Everyday Negotiations

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

I’ve written before about why the old idea of dogs as “pack animals” blindly following a dominant “pack leader” is not only incorrect but harmful to dogs. Today, I want to focus on something more subtle and fascinating: the daily social negotiations dogs engage in with each other. Yes, social dominance does exist in animal…

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The Power of Clicker Training

Posted on May 21, 2025May 22, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

Recently, a colleague and I engaged in a thoughtful conversation about the current state of animal training—specifically dog training. We found ourselves deeply affected by the recurring reports of misunderstandings and, unfortunately, inhumane training practices that claim to help animals but often do the opposite. These experiences weigh heavily on us. We mutually decided to…

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Mastering the Art of “Wait”: A Must-Have Skill for Every Dog

Posted on May 17, 2025May 17, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

Teaching your dog to “wait” — whether it’s before dashing out the front door or jumping out of the car seat — is one of the most valuable lessons you can offer your furry friend. This simple yet powerful command does more than just prevent chaos; it can literally save your dog’s life. Beyond safety,…

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Why Training Sometimes Doesn’t Work: A Conversation About Behavior Challenges

Posted on May 13, 2025May 17, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

I recently discussed a challenging case with a colleague, exploring why training or behavior modification might not deliver the desired results. We identified four common reasons: Here’s a closer look: 1. Technique Misapplication A frequent mistake is using corrections like leash pops or yelling as the primary response to unwanted behavior—say, a dog lunging or…

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When “Obedience” Isn’t So Simple: Rethinking Our Expectations for Dogs

Posted on May 9, 2025May 17, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

When “Obedience” Isn’t So Simple: Rethinking Our Expectations for Dogs I was reading a new client’s intake form recently, and an internal alarm went off. The client emphasized that having an “obedient” dog was their top priority. I get it—who doesn’t want a well-behaved dog? But what does “obedient” really mean? By definition, obedience means…

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Helping a Fearful Pup Step Into Confidence

Posted on April 17, 2025April 17, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been working closely with a small dog and his devoted family to help him feel more comfortable being approached, picked up, and transported in the car. This little guy struggles deeply with anxiety—he trembles like a leaf whenever someone walks toward him, and the shaking continues as he’s being…

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Introducing FitBO™: A Unique Low-Impact Sport to Strengthen the Connection Between You and Your Dog

Posted on March 20, 2025March 20, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

Are you looking for a fun and innovative way to bond with your dog while enhancing obedience training and fitness? Look no further than FitBO™—a low-impact sport modality I’ve developed to increase subtle communication between you and your dog. With FitBO™, you can hone your obedience training with precision while also incorporating elements of canine fitness…

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The Science of Tail Wagging: Can We Really Decode a Dog’s Emotions?

Posted on March 14, 2025March 14, 2025 by Almudena Ortiz Cue

You may have come across studies exploring laterality—the dominance of one side of the body over the other. This phenomenon is well-documented across species, including dogs. Canines exhibit preferences in how they use their paws, how they gaze at humans, and even how they sniff their surroundings. But what about tail wagging? Could laterality play…

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Living with an Emotional Dog—a dog that is constantly stressed, fearful, anxious, or aggressive is a very complex proposition. Part of the reason this is so challenging is that, for the most part, pet parents...
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Adolescent Dogs
Aggression
Anxiety
Basic Obedience
Fear
Enrichment
How Dogs Learn
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Recent Posts

  • How to Manage Prey Drive and Build Trust
  • Choosing Kindness Over Fear: A Delivery Day Lesson
  • What Dogs Teach Us About Everyday Negotiations
  • The Power of Clicker Training

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Text & photos copyright Almudena Ortiz Cue , 2013. All rights reserved.