Getting Your First Puppy
Bringing home your first puppy is a big decision — but also incredibly exciting! No one gets more excited about a new pup than I do. I love helping people welcome a new addition to their family. That fluffy cuteness and intoxicating puppy breath is pure joy. But once the initial excitement settles, there are […]
Using Drugs to Modify Your Dog’s Behavior: Why It Often Fails

A few months ago, I shared a video explaining why drugs are ineffective for treating aggression in dogs. But aggression isn’t the only reason dogs are prescribed medication for behavior issues. Recently, I worked with several dogs medicated for behavioral problems, including over-excitability. One case involved a 2-year-old Great Dane cross named Dudley, a sweet […]
Open Minded People

Ever met someone who swears punishment isn’t needed in dog training? I get it—no one wants to feel like they’re hurting their pup. But here’s the thing: punishment, done right, isn’t about cruelty—it’s about clear communication. Dogs thrive with boundaries, just like they’d get a growl from a pack leader in the wild. A quick […]
Let Your Dog Sniff, But Don’t Let Them Run the Show 🐶

I’m ready for the pushback on this one, but hear me out: letting your dog sniff endlessly on walks isn’t the enrichment you think it is. The Power of a Dog’s Nose Dogs are scent machines. From the moment they’re born, their nose is working—guiding them to their mum for food, warmth, and safety. A […]
“Dominance” in Dogs: Why It’s Time to Rethink This Term

If you’ve ever heard someone describe a dog as “dominant,” you might picture a bossy pup ruling the roost, growling to get their way, or refusing to listen. But here’s the truth: dominance is an incredibly generalized term that doesn’t accurately describe a dog’s temperament or any single behaviour. Let’s unpack why this label is […]
The Risks of Seeking Free Dog Behaviour Advice Online

As dog owners, we all want the best for our furry companions, and it’s tempting to turn to online pet owner groups or social media for quick, free advice on dog behaviour issues. While these platforms can feel like a supportive community, relying on them for guidance comes with significant drawbacks. Here’s why seeking free […]
The Misguided Pet Owner: Are We Failing Our Dogs?

As humans, our complex thought processes make us vulnerable to misinformation—especially about our pets. Social media amplifies this, showcasing both the best and worst of human nature, as Mark Zuckerberg once noted. It’s a powerful tool for dog trainers like me to connect and educate, but it also spreads myths that harm our dogs. When […]
Busting the Myth of Food/ Resource Guarding in Dogs

Dog owners are often given outdated advice about managing food/ resource guarding, like taking food from a dog’s mouth or standing over them while they eat. The intention is to “teach” the dog not to guard their food, but this approach often backfires. Let’s set the record straight: these methods do make resource guarding worse, […]
Adding a Second Dog to Your Household: A Comprehensive Guide
As a seasoned dog trainer, I often encounter pet owners who are contemplating the addition of a second dog to their family. The primary motivation is typically to provide their current dog with a companion – a playmate to stave off boredom and loneliness. While I’m advocate for ensuring dogs are not subjected to a […]
Do you feel safe around your dog when he’s eating?
This particular subject always reminds of a Mini Fox Terrier that I helped with many years ago and yes some of them really do stay with you. It was a friend of a friend and their little Foxy was very sweet, affectionate and very social with everyone.