Month: February 2016

Seeing Or Believing?

Seeing Or Believing?

Recently, I wrote about positive reinforcement and what it means. In behaviorist terms “positive” means adding something desired in response to a behavior and “reinforcement” is anything that happens that causes a particular behavior to happen more often. That’s the technical definition of the terms, but it can also help to think of the words […]

You Can’t Trick Your Dog, But…

You Can’t Trick Your Dog, But…

Two weeks ago, I wrote about Hollywood dog trainers and how, while they may fool their audiences by using different dogs for different tricks, we can’t fool our dogs because they can tell when we’re being inauthentic. However, when people have had trouble projecting calm, assertive energy, I’ve also advised them to “fake it until […]

Do Dogs Feel Guilty?

Do Dogs Feel Guilty? A dog is sad after being scolded for chewing on furniture.

Many Pack Leaders have experienced something like this before: They arrive home to discover a huge mess. Somehow, their beloved pooch got out of his crate and tore into the furniture. Again. The fluffy innards of your comfy chair cover the floor and the couch. Some of it is even stuck to the curtains. And […]

The Right Reasons

The Right Reasons

Happy Valentine’s Day — and happy Singles’ Awareness Day. The former holiday has become big business in America. In 2015, people spent over $703 million on Valentine’s gifts. That may not seem like a lot when the same people spend $7 billion for Halloween and nearly a trillion dollars on Christmas — but that’s because […]

Why Do Dogs Chew Their Paws?

Why Do Dogs Chew Their Paws? a dog chews on his paws as a way to relieve pain

Are you wondering why your dog is chewing his paws? You’re not alone! There are a variety of reasons why dogs might chew their paws. Let’s look at the most common reasons, as well as the signs that might let you know it’s time to take your pup to the vet. Common Reason’s Dog’s Chew […]

Common Mistakes Of First-Time Dog Owners

Common Mistakes Of First-Time Dog Owners A woman reads the paper while her dog sneaks food from her plate.

When you think about getting a dog, you most likely imagine the fun and excitement of it. You’ll have a furry companion to snuggle with, a living alarm system to ward off would-be burglars, a playmate — or all three. But there’s a lot that goes into being a good Pack Leader. A dog is […]