Good Dog!
Training Tips From Positive Reinforcement Pros
This month’s issue is supported in part by SF Animal Medical Center and dog lovers like you.
Canine ESL: How To Talk To Your Dog
I'm sure we all talk to our dogs. But the question is, "How much do our dogs understand?”
Wanderlust Limited: When and How to Use a Long Lead
Using a long line is a great way to give your pup freedom without compromising safety. But there is an art to it.
The Off-Duty Hack: Taming Front Door Chaos
You're not alone if your dog struggles with overarousal or fear whenever someone knocks or the doorbell rings. This is especially true for pandemic puppies who missed out on learning that new people coming into the house isn't a big deal.
Want to Freshen Up Your Training Treats? Your Pup’s Palate May Surprise You
When you consider training treats, I encourage you to start thinking about what novel smells and textures could appeal to your dog.
No Bad Dogs: Is a Board and Train Program Right for You?
While some board and train programs may have a great deal to offer your dog, others have come under fire by knowledgeable trainers.
Scatter Feeding: A Simple Way to Enrich Your Dog’s Dining Experience
Capitalizing on their powerful sense of smell can significantly benefit your canine companion and enhance their overall well-being. And scatter feeding is a great way to do that.
Why Is My Dog Like That? Insights from a Veterinary Behaviorist
I recently spoke with veterinary behaviorist Dr. Wailani Sung (DVM MS, PHD, DACVB), who currently serves as Director of Behavior and Welfare Programs at the San Francisco SPCA.
Sit, Stay, Swallow: Tips for Getting Meds Down an Unwilling Dog
Administering long-term medication to your dog can sometimes be a challenging task.
Keep It Simple: Four Things Every Dog Should Know
As my first week in my new position has reminded me, all pet owners, myself included, benefit most from keeping it simple.
Train Smarter: Balancing Your Dog’s High-Arousal Activities
Alternating play with short training sessions can benefit both dog and human.
The Problem with Fetch: Or Why I Chucked the Ball Launcher
There seems to be an unspoken rule among dog people that every dog and human should be absolutely crazy for fetch.
Where the Magic Happens: Dog Training at the Intersection of Science and Art
Is dog training an art? A science? Both?
Tug of War With Your Dog: Myths vs. Facts
Tug of war is a great game you can play with your dog that too often gets a bad rap.
Canine Consent: Why It Matters and How To Get It
We’ve all heard a lot about consent lately when it comes to human relationships, but it’s also a concept that has been coming into focus in the dog training world…
Loving Leroy: My First Heart Dog
If you’ve been around the dog world long enough, you may have heard someone talk about their “heart dog.”
New Puppy Blues: Four Steps to Sanity
I rescued Balto, my five-and-a-half-month-old Shepherd/Husky mix, so I could better relate to my puppy clients and so I could do all the training I’ve been helping others with. I have been humbled.
The Gift of Help: Training Your Own Service Dog
When working with an owner-trainer client, I first identify what task(s) the dog needs to learn to assist the owner.
San Francisco's Proposed Shock Collar Ban: Why We Stopped Arguing and Took Action
When was the last time you changed your mind after an online argument? Chances are, never.
Puppies 101: How to Get Your New Friend Off to a Happy, Healthy Start
Do you have a new puppy or are you thinking about getting one?
“He’s Friendly!” Why That’s the Most Unfriendly Thing You Can Say
Why do some people feel entitled to our personal space without caring to get our consent first?