Starts Wednesday, October 1, 2025 Do you have a training or relationship goal that you would like to work on with your eXtraOrdinary Dog? Something that could make life better, less scary, and more enjoyable for you both? Join us on Facebook at The eXtraOrdinary Dog Community – Shy and Fearful Dogs for our free […]
Is Your Dog Truly “Fine”? Identifying Subtle Signs of Canine Stress and Anxiety
Fine, When She Doesn’t See You Little Daisy sat on her trusted person’s lap in the vet’s reception area, alternately trembling, barking, growling and flashing her teeth at other dogs waiting for their appointments nearby. Her tail was tucked tightly under her legs, her hackles were raised along her neck and her ears were pinned […]
A Guide to Helping Your Fearful Dog Feel Safe Around Family Members
It’s Not Always Easy Fear of family members is a complex topic for those of us who live with and work with fearful dogs. This fear does not usually resolve over time unless thoughtful and consistent management and modification techniques are implemented, but there is hope. For many families who live with a fearful dog, […]
Leash Lessons: Dog Leash Handling Techniques for Enhanced Safety
The Importance of Proper Leash Handling Regardless of how you hold your leash, I think that we can all agree that we use a leash to keep our dogs and those around us safe. Even if your dog has 100% perfect recall and stays by your side despite distractions off-leash, there are times and places […]
Love Shouldn’t Hurt: A Deeper Look at Punishment and Behavior Modification for Dogs
Why do dogs and humans (and all organisms) avoid punishment? We avoid it because it hurts! The punishment needs to hurt enough physically or psychologically to outweigh our need to perform the behavior the next time the opportunity arises. But, Officer… A classic example of punishment influencing human behavior is the dreaded speeding ticket. The […]