If you’ve ever spent time with a litter of puppies, you’ve probably noticed how much they love to play — and that play almost always involves teeth. Tiny, needle-sharp puppy teeth. And while this is natural, it’s also one of the most important behaviors you’ll need to shape in your pup’s early months: bite inhibition….
If you dream of staying vibrant, energetic, and young for years to come, I have a little secret to share: surround yourself with a playful dog. From my own experience, one of the greatest gifts my dogs bring to my life—and to my own sense of movement and joy—is their boundless spontaneity. Dogs have this…
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…
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,…
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…
The title might seem like a trick question, but there’s a valid concern behind it. Some dogs do gain excessive weight due to overfeeding—especially when high-calorie treats are given in addition to their regular meals. Even a few extra pounds can push a dog into the overweight or obese category, which is why it’s crucial…
I recently noticed that my dogs showed little interest in chasing a poorly thrown Frisbee. This led me to rethink our training sessions using key principles of animal learning—concepts that anyone working with animals, whether professionally or as a pet owner, should understand. One of the most effective ways to modify behavior is by changing…
Here’s a not-so-trivial question for you: Of all the things your young puppy needs to learn right away, which is the most important? If you chose #3, congratulations—you deserve a gold star! If you thought #1 or #2 was the most important, keep reading! One of the biggest areas of confusion for pet parents is…
I’m sitting at a local eatery, waiting for a friend, when a group arrives with a dog. The owner immediately positions the dog beside her, away from foot traffic. Nice! I think to myself. Someone is paying attention. The dog remains quiet, likely lying next to her, calm and composed. But then, suddenly, something shifts—a…
Walking your dog should be an enjoyable experience, but if your pup constantly pulls, it can turn into a frustrating struggle. Loose leash walking is an essential skill for both you and your dog, making walks safer and more enjoyable. While it takes patience and consistency, the good news is that any dog can learn!…