Deuce brings his ball to me so that we can play one of his favorite games. As I am trying to get the ball from him, he tightens his jaw with the ball in his mouth. I remove my hand from under his chin and I turn away. No release of the ball, no throwing…
Author: Almudena Ortiz Cue
Playing Footsy
Do you have aspirations of remaining young for a long, long time? If so, then consider getting a playful pup. I have noticed that one of the best things my dogs contribute to my life and me being active is their spontaneity. Dogs have an amazing ability to entertain themselves and to taunt us into…
Does Snake-Avoidance Training Work?
In many parts of the country, Spring is the opening of months for snake sightings and dog owners the world over concern over their dogs being bitten by one. Some folks submit their dogs on a yearly basis to Snake-avoidance training. Their rational being that it’s best to have their dog zapped in the presence…
More Training at the Front Door
For some dogs impulse control at the front door is literally mission impossible. Rio is one of those dogs! Her impulse control in other circumstances such as waiting to be released to go after a toy is superb. The reason behind the lack of impulse control at the front door could be for a myriad…
Is giving praise good enough?
Recently I was asked in class by a participant if she could stop using treats and instead praise her dog to motivate her to do the behaviors they were learning. I know that every single trainer that uses food as a reinforcer has heard this same question thousands of times. A different variation to the…
Some Kind of Barking
I am back with Deuce from sheepherding and back at work in my office when I hear a “strange” bark coming from Deuce. I ask John if Deuce is with him in his office, which is on the opposite side of the house, and he tells me no. So I get up and go towards…
Good Timing
I am in the kitchen waiting for Deuce and Rio to finish their breakfast; this morning it was served in their bowls. Deuce appears at the kitchen while Rio bee lines to Deuce’s dish just in case he has left something behind. Once she realizes there is nothing left she comes into the kitchen. I…
Flyswatter
It is early afternoon, which means prime naptime for both dogs. I am going about my business when I hear a fly buzzing around me. I am one of those people that have a very low tolerance for noise. And a fly buzzing around is more than I can handle. I reach for the flyswatter…
Redirecting
It is early in the morning and I am still in bed. My eyes are closed, yet I can still feel a pair of eye staring at me. Then I hear a tiny whimper; and now I am pretending to be asleep. I keep my eyes closed for that effect and try hard not to…
In and Out Privileges
I guess it has been a Lab-month in our household since I now have Roxie – another Lab mix here for board & train. I am teaching her how to use the doggie door that will give her access to our back area to go eliminate, sun herself and just take a walk of some…