Perhaps you have read somewhere about a few studies conducted regarding what is called laterality which is defined as the predominance of one side of the body over the other. Laterality has been observed in many species among them in dogs. Dogs do have preference as to which side of their body they use in…
On this particular day, I am accompanying John on his regular hikes with our dogs. Rio is dashing from tree to tree. From scent to scent oblivious of the world around her. I call her. Nada! I know better than to keep calling her, but I also take notice that this girl needs a refreshing course…
One of the things I like most about living with dogs is seeing them play. Let’s define play first. Most experts will agree that play is an activity which the sole purpose is to have fun. Play can have rules or not and, of course, it covers a wide range of activities. However, the fun as the…
Deuce and I are at our weekly sheepherding lesson, something we have done for a few years. Sheepherding is a lot like signing in that having talent really makes things easier but neither signing well or sheepherding are easy endeavors. People are familiar with herding dogs- especially with Border collies; but what people don’t know…
I just came from visiting with a family whose dog decided to take a paw at landscaping design. The dog was thrilled with the results; the owner not so much. As I explained to them, unfortunately for us digging comes naturally to dogs. It is part of their ancient wiring that frankly as all natural…
We all know how most kiddos feel about Halloween and the same would go for a large number of adults. All that mystery, sugar and walks to haunted destinations under crisp conditions can send chills down someone’s spine. But what about our dogs? Do they care for Halloween? I guess we will never know unless…we …
My clients often ask me which kind of treats I use when I work with their dogs. The secret is now out! You can purchase them here. Make sure you add code AO2995 as these fabulous healthy and very high value treats are ONLY sold via a pro-trainer. Disclaimer: I am reimbursed $10 when you…
We are on our regular walk with the dogs. One of the things that we do while hiking with them is practicing coming when called. If we want reliability, we must practice. If we want reliability, we must also pay the dog. Deuce is really, really reliable at recall, and that makes me smile with…
Cutting-edge research in psychology has helped us understand the importance of play in general and social play, particularly for the rehabilitation of timid and fearful dogs. I define social play as the engagement between a person and their dog that is voluntary and with no purpose other than to have a “good” time and “connect”…
Many dogs are labeled: “hyper, “stubborn,” “problem dogs,” or “aggressive” when in fact, it is their lack of Confidence that is the underlining factor for their behavior. As the guardians of these dogs will attest, living with a dog that lacks Confidence is a challenge. Luckily I am offering a four-week course that will explore…