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 […]
It Takes As Long As It Takes: The Truth About Your New Dog’s Adjustment Period
There is a well-meaning but inaccurate infographic in the behavior world that proclaims that ‘it takes three days for your new dog to decompress, three weeks for your new dog to learn your routine, and three months for your new dog to start to feel at home’. There are easily close to one hundred versions […]
Building Trust with Time: The Importance of Decompression for Adopted Dogs
Decompression is Good for Everyone All dogs, especially fearful dogs, benefit from a decompression period in their new home. Your new furry family member needs time to feel safe and understand the routines and expectations of her new household with minimal stress, and you should take the time to become an “expert” on your new […]
The Hidden Struggle: Navigating Everyday Life with a Fearful Dog
Living with a fearful dog can be hard. Concentrating all your resources on the well-being of a dog who struggles to adapt to your busy world can often lead to mental exhaustion, emotional burnout, physical stress, financial hardship, and even strained relationships. While compassion fatigue is widely accepted as a serious issue in the human […]