Recognizing burnout in yourself or your dog is crucial for a successful and enjoyable training journey. It can sneak up on you so quickly. Here are some things you should know to help you navigate this situation: What is burnout:…
Hyperarousal is a state of heightened emotional and physical activation in dogs. It’s often mistaken for simple excitement, but it can lead to reactivity, disobedience, aggression, and even dog fights. What is Hyperarousal?When a dog experiences hyperarousal, their body releases…
Leash reactivity, a common behavior issue in dogs, occurs when a dog displays excessive reactions towards stimuli like other dogs, people, or objects while on a leash. These reactions can range from barking and lunging to freezing and cowering. While…
Canine reactivity, often misunderstood as generalized aggression, is an umbrella term for a dog’s excessive emotional response to stimuli like other dogs, people, or objects. While aggression involves intent to harm, reactivity stems from fear/anxiety, excitement, or frustration and does…
Desensitization and counterconditioning are powerful techniques for helping dogs overcome fear and reactivity. By gradually exposing them to their triggers in a positive way, you can help them develop new associations and emotional responses. Avoid punishment based training, as this…
In humans, we say a person is “over threshold” when they’re at a 7 out of 10 or higher on the crisis scale, and they are no longer able to use coping skills and tools clearly at that time. While…
For those who haven’t noticed the shift in my usual posting frenzy, let me be upfront: things are a little different around here right now. My beloved retired demo/service dog, Ellie, has entered the final stage of her fight against…
It’s important to acknowledge that there are diverse viewpoints on what constitutes ethical dog breeding. While some may prioritize factors like health testing and showing, others may have different priorities or concerns like working ability. It’s crucial to remember that…
Crate training is one of the most valuable tools for potty training, preventing destructive behavior, and creating a safe space for your puppy. Here’s a guide to get you started: Why crate train? Potty training: Puppies have small bladders and…
I describe myself and my training methods as “LIMA-leaning Balanced”. Mine is a dog training philosophy that prioritizes using the least intrusive and minimally aversive methods to achieve training goals while acknowledging the potential value of all training tools and…