7 Things Dogs Want You to Know If dogs could speak, this is what they would tell their pet owners. As a professional dog trainer with more than two decades of experience, I often explain these concepts to pet owners every day during consultations. Before you continue reading, throw away your perceived notions of how dogs should think and behave and remember they are dogs. … [Read more...]
Next Time Someone Wants To Greet Your Dog, Ask Your Dog First
Give Your Dog Choices During Greetings It’s all about choices, especially for dogs. Let’s face it: Dogs really don’t have many choices in life. Dogs don’t choose their roommates (i.e. other dogs), veterinarian, food, treats, daily walking path and potty times. While I have discussed choices extensively in other articles, let's discuss giving our dogs choices when … [Read more...]
The Hidden Danger Behind Dog Collars
Dog Strangulation By Collar is Real We probably both agree that dogs should always wear their collars with a current ID tag, but wearing dog collars in certain situations can be hazardous. For years, I firmly believed dogs should always wear collars until one day when my dog’s ID tag got caught between the wires of his crate. Now, understand, I didn’t leave him in his … [Read more...]
Stop Walking Your Aggressive Dog In Public
Why You Shouldn't Walk Your Aggressive Dog Yes, this is a very strong statement, but allow me to explain why you shouldn't walk your aggressive dog in public. As a professional dog trainer, who works mostly with reactive dogs, there’s a reason for this strong position. Of course, it’s a free country and you can make your own decisions, but are your choices making things … [Read more...]
7 Tips For Bike Riding With Your Dog
Biking With Dogs Safely As temperatures warm up and daylight lingers just a bit longer, pet owners are taking advantage of the warmer months with their dogs. While many pet owners choose to go on a walk, some enjoy biking with their dogs. Before grabbing your dog and bicycle, check out these dog safety tips first. 1. Size of Dog Matters When humans pedal bikes, they move … [Read more...]
Dog Friendly Places
More and more businesses are opening their doors to humankind’s best friend. It’s tempting to take your dog with you on all your adventures, large and small. After all, your dog won’t complain about traffic on the way to the hardware store, balk at the prices on the menu at your favorite restaurant, or want to switch rooms at the hotel because you’re too close to the ice … [Read more...]
Buyers Guide: Smart Toys for Cats
Interactive playthings can help keep felines challenged and entertained When it comes to entertainment and enrichment, cats actually have very simple needs: Can they chase it, scratch it, sit on it or hide in it…? Challenging toys that are designed specifically for felines can help you keep your cat(s) entertained and provide much-needed enrichment. Here is a sampling of smart … [Read more...]
Canine Safety and Kids
How to Introduce Dogs and Children to Each Other Dogs can be wonderful companions and playmates for children—and vice versa. However, the younger the child, the more cautious you should be during their first encounter. Children are more likely to be bitten by a dog simply because they tend to move erratically, are rarely aware of the effect of their actions, and tend to … [Read more...]