Personal Reflections
Bart De Gols
If You Love Dogs, Buy a Goldfish !

If you love dogs, buy a goldfish. It sounds counterintuitive, I know, but hear me out. Dogs are incredible creatures, full of personality, intelligence, and charm—but they’re not accessories, nor are they little humans in fur suits. Too often, we bring a dog home and expect it to fit into our lives as easily as a new couch or houseplant. We assume they’ll adapt to our schedules, tolerate every guest, and generally go with the flow, all while remaining endlessly loyal and affectionate. But dogs aren’t wired to live passively in our world. They need more than food, water, and a soft place to sleep. They need structure, guidance, and a bit of respect for who they truly are—animals with instincts and needs that don’t always align with our expectations.

In this article, I explore what it means to be a steward rather than a mere owner when it comes to dogs. Becoming a steward means understanding and meeting our dogs’ needs, recognizing that they are sentient beings with unique personalities and preferences. True stewardship goes beyond basic care and training; it’s about creating an environment where a dog feels secure, valued, and fulfilled. Dogs need routines that make sense to them, guidance that respects their instincts, and a life that offers more than just a passive existence in a human household. And if that sounds like too much responsibility, there’s no shame in choosing a pet that doesn’t require quite so much—like a goldfish, perhaps.

By the end, I hope to leave you with a deeper understanding of what dogs truly need to thrive and maybe a smile at the thought of swapping your dog for a simpler, less demanding companion. Because while a goldfish might offer peace and simplicity, it will never give you the kind of partnership, loyalty, and joy that a dog brings. So, are you a dog steward or more a goldfish-fishtank kind of person?

If You Love Dogs, Buy a Goldfish !
Animal Behavioral Sciene , Behavior Modification, Training Techniques
Bart De Gols
Mind Over Manner: From Behavioral Conditioning ...

In this article, I present my approach to dog training that moves beyond traditional behavioral conditioning to embrace the complex neuroscience of canine cognition. Through the years I've discovered that successful training isn't merely about teaching and reinforcing behaviors—it's about understanding and managing the dog's brain state to optimize learning and promote lasting behavioral change. This paradigm shift represents a fundamental departure from conventional training methods, offering a more sophisticated and scientifically-grounded approach to canine behavior modification.

At the heart of this methodology lies the recognition of what I call the "two minds" of the dog—the cognitive mind and the primal mind. This duality, rooted in the interplay between the prefrontal cortex and limbic system, forms the cornerstone of modern canine behavior understanding. Through careful observation and documentation of hundreds of cases, I've developed protocols that allow us to identify, influence, and maintain optimal brain states for learning. When we understand how to manage these states effectively, we can achieve behavioral changes that are both more profound and more sustainable than those obtained through traditional training methods.

The implications of this neuroscientific approach extend far beyond simple obedience training. By understanding the biological mechanisms that drive behavior—from neurotransmitter balance to cortisol management—we can create training environments that work with, rather than against, the dog's natural neurological processes. Throughout this article, I will guide you through the practical applications of these principles, sharing detailed protocols and case studies that demonstrate how this understanding transforms our ability to address complex behavioral challenges. When we shift our focus from external compliance to internal state management, we open new possibilities for creating lasting positive change in our dogs' lives.

Mind Over Manner: From Behavioral Conditioning to Cognitive Mind State Management
Personal Reflections, Animal Behavioral Sciene , Industry Topics
Bart De Gols
Rogue's Fight Against Gastric ...

Last Wednesday, what began as a routine day turned into a life-altering experience when my wife's German Shepherd, Rogue, developed Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), a potentially fatal condition. As I was teaching a class in my barn, Rogue's increasing distress caught my attention. His whining escalated from mild to severe, and upon checking, I found his belly alarmingly distended. Recognizing the signs of GDV from my knowledge of canine health, I knew we were in a race against time. With my car in the shop, a client volunteered to drive us on the hour-long journey to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic. Every minute of that drive was filled with fear and uncertainty, knowing that GDV's mortality rate increases significantly with each passing hour.

In this article, I will explain the harrowing journey of Rogue's battle with GDV, from the emergency surgery to his challenging recovery in the ICU. I'll delve into the complexities of the surgical procedure, including how the surgeon managed to save Rogue's spleen despite finding blood clots. Moreover, I'll explore the science behind GDV, discussing its causes, risk factors, and prevention strategies. Drawing from our experience, I'll highlight the critical importance of early recognition and rapid response in GDV cases. The article will also cover the long-term implications of GDV, both physical and emotional, for both the dog and the owner. Finally, I'll share the valuable lessons learned from this ordeal and how it has transformed our approach to canine health care, hoping to raise awareness and potentially save other dogs' lives.

Rogue's Fight Against Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Animal Behavioral Sciene , Training Techniques, Behavior Modification, Anxiety Aggression Fear
Bart De Gols
The Blue-Eyed Puzzle: Unraveling the Genetic ...

The icy-blue or sky-colored eyes that captivate so many dog lovers are often accompanied by a higher incidence of anxiety, reactivity, and behavioral concerns compared to their brown-eyed counterparts. This observation isn't just anecdotal; it's supported by a growing body of scientific research and my own hands-on work with these breeds.

Currently, I'm working with two dogs in my board and train program that exemplify these challenges: Tater Tot, a mini Australian Shepherd, and Finnley, a Catahoula Leopard Dog. Both of these blue-eyed beauties are here to address severe anxiety, reactivity, and aggression issues. The striking similarity of their problems, despite their different breeds, has led me to delve deeper into the genetic underpinnings of these behavioral issues.

In this article, I aim to shed light on the genetic basis of blue eye color in these breeds, explore the link between sensory perception and behavior, and examine how these factors may contribute to heightened anxiety, reactivity to novel stimuli, and aggression towards people. It's crucial to understand that these dogs are not at fault for their challenging behaviors. Instead, their struggles often stem from genetic factors related to their distinctive eye color.

The Blue-Eyed Puzzle: Unraveling the Genetic and Behavioral Challenges of Tater Tot and Finnley
Animal Behavioral Sciene , Training Techniques, Behavior Modification
Bart De Gols
Choose Your Difficult Part 4: The Socialization ...

Many dog owners believe socialization is about exposing their dog to as many people, dogs, and environments as possible to create a friendly, outgoing pet. However, in **Part 4 of the "Choose Your Difficult"** series, I challenge this notion. While exposure is important, too much engagement often leads to overstimulation, reactivity, and anxiety. My philosophy focuses on raising a **neutral dog**—one that can observe the world around them without feeling compelled to react. A dog that remains calm, balanced, and focused on their handler is not only easier to manage but more emotionally secure.

In this article, I dive into the challenges and science behind socializing for neutrality rather than excitement. Overstimulation triggers stress, and many behavioral issues stem from a lack of emotional control. The difficult path is teaching your dog to be calm and neutral in the face of distractions, rather than chasing engagement or excitement. Though it takes effort, patience, and consistency, raising a neutral dog leads to a well-balanced companion who thrives in any situation, strengthening your bond in the process.

Choose Your Difficult Part 4: The Socialization Dilemma – Calm vs. Chaos in a World of Distractions

body language

If You Love Dogs, Buy a Goldfish !

If You Love Dogs, Buy a Goldfish !

If you love dogs, buy a goldfish. It sounds counterintuitive, I know, but hear me out. Dogs are incredible creatures, full of personality, intelligence, and charm—but they’re not accessories, nor are they little humans in fur suits. Too often, we bring a dog home and expect it to fit into our lives as easily as a new couch or houseplant. We assume they’ll adapt to our schedules, tolerate every guest, and generally go with the flow, all while remaining endlessly loyal and affectionate. But dogs aren’t wired to live passively in our world. They need more than food, water, and a soft place to sleep. They need structure, guidance, and a bit of respect for who they truly are—animals with instincts and needs that don’t always align with our expectations.

In this article, I explore what it means to be a steward rather than a mere owner when it comes to dogs. Becoming a steward means understanding and meeting our dogs’ needs, recognizing that they are sentient beings with unique personalities and preferences. True stewardship goes beyond basic care and training; it’s about creating an environment where a dog feels secure, valued, and fulfilled. Dogs need routines that make sense to them, guidance that respects their instincts, and a life that offers more than just a passive existence in a human household. And if that sounds like too much responsibility, there’s no shame in choosing a pet that doesn’t require quite so much—like a goldfish, perhaps.

By the end, I hope to leave you with a deeper understanding of what dogs truly need to thrive and maybe a smile at the thought of swapping your dog for a simpler, less demanding companion. Because while a goldfish might offer peace and simplicity, it will never give you the kind of partnership, loyalty, and joy that a dog brings. So, are you a dog steward or more a goldfish-fishtank kind of person?

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The Blue-Eyed Puzzle: Unraveling the Genetic and Behavioral Challenges of Tater Tot and Finnley

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The Blue-Eyed Puzzle: Unraveling the Genetic and Behavioral Challenges of Tater Tot and Finnley

The icy-blue or sky-colored eyes that captivate so many dog lovers are often accompanied by a higher incidence of anxiety, reactivity, and behavioral concerns compared to their brown-eyed counterparts. This observation isn't just anecdotal; it's supported by a growing body of scientific research and my own hands-on work with these breeds.

Currently, I'm working with two dogs in my board and train program that exemplify these challenges: Tater Tot, a mini Australian Shepherd, and Finnley, a Catahoula Leopard Dog. Both of these blue-eyed beauties are here to address severe anxiety, reactivity, and aggression issues. The striking similarity of their problems, despite their different breeds, has led me to delve deeper into the genetic underpinnings of these behavioral issues.

In this article, I aim to shed light on the genetic basis of blue eye color in these breeds, explore the link between sensory perception and behavior, and examine how these factors may contribute to heightened anxiety, reactivity to novel stimuli, and aggression towards people. It's crucial to understand that these dogs are not at fault for their challenging behaviors. Instead, their struggles often stem from genetic factors related to their distinctive eye color.

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Choose Your Difficult Part 4: The Socialization Dilemma – Calm vs. Chaos in a World of Distractions

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Choose Your Difficult Part 4: The Socialization Dilemma – Calm vs. Chaos in a World of Distractions

Many dog owners believe socialization is about exposing their dog to as many people, dogs, and environments as possible to create a friendly, outgoing pet. However, in **Part 4 of the "Choose Your Difficult"** series, I challenge this notion. While exposure is important, too much engagement often leads to overstimulation, reactivity, and anxiety. My philosophy focuses on raising a **neutral dog**—one that can observe the world around them without feeling compelled to react. A dog that remains calm, balanced, and focused on their handler is not only easier to manage but more emotionally secure.

In this article, I dive into the challenges and science behind socializing for neutrality rather than excitement. Overstimulation triggers stress, and many behavioral issues stem from a lack of emotional control. The difficult path is teaching your dog to be calm and neutral in the face of distractions, rather than chasing engagement or excitement. Though it takes effort, patience, and consistency, raising a neutral dog leads to a well-balanced companion who thrives in any situation, strengthening your bond in the process.

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Choose Your Difficult: Navigating the Complex Choices of Dog Ownership - Part 3 Consistency

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Choose Your Difficult: Navigating the Complex Choices of Dog Ownership - Part 3 Consistency

In my ongoing series, "Choose Your Difficult: Navigating the Complex Choices of Dog Ownership," we’ve been exploring the pivotal decisions that shape our relationships with our dogs. The essence of "Choose Your Difficult" is the understanding that every path in dog ownership comes with its own set of challenges. There is no easy way out, but we can make informed choices about which difficulties we are willing to face to create the best possible outcomes for both our dogs and ourselves. In the first article, we discussed the balance between affection and boundaries; in the second, we emphasized the importance of early training. In this third article, we will look into the critical importance of consistency—a cornerstone of effective dog ownership that is essential for fostering a well-behaved, secure, and content dog.

Consistency in dog ownership is about creating a structured environment where your dog knows what to expect and what is expected of them. While this might seem straightforward, maintaining consistency in our often chaotic and busy lives is anything but simple. It requires discipline, commitment, and a deep understanding of how our behavior and decisions impact our dog’s behavior and emotional well-being. The choice you face here is between the short-term convenience of being flexible or inconsistent and the long-term benefits of maintaining a structured, predictable environment for your dog.

The Pressure Behind the Passion: Emotional Challenges in Dog Training

The Pressure Behind the Passion: Emotional Challenges in Dog Training

In light of yet another suicide attempt by a fellow trainer and behaviorist, it's imperative that we address the profound emotional and mental challenges faced by those in our profession. This tragic event is a stark reminder of the pressures we endure, pressures that led to the loss of my late friend, Dr. Sophia Yin, who hung herself ten years ago. Dr. Yin was an incredible trainer whose life was cut short by the very stress and exhaustion described in this article. Beneath the surface of what many perceive as an idyllic job lies a profession fraught with emotional and mental challenges that are often overlooked.

Dog trainers face immense pressure from unrealistic expectations, with many dog owners believing that a few weeks of training can undo years of ingrained behaviors. This misconception places a heavy burden on trainers, who invest not just their time but also their emotions into helping these dogs. The emotional toll of seeing progress unravel due to owner negligence, coupled with the constant demand for immediate results and availability, leads to severe burnout. This article delves into these unseen struggles, shedding light on the emotional and mental exhaustion that comes with the territory of being a dog trainer.

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Why Do Good Dog Trainers Get Bad Reviews? 10 Eye-Opening Reasons

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Why Do Good Dog Trainers Get Bad Reviews? 10 Eye-Opening Reasons

Many highly skilled dog trainers are receiving poor reviews and negative feedback from clients after their dogs return home from intensive board and train programs or service dog training. At first glance, it may seem like the issue lies with the trainers themselves or the quality of their training methods. However, after careful analysis and observation, I've come to the conclusion that in most cases, the problem actually stems from the owners and handlers themselves.

In this article, I will explore ten key reasons why even the best trained dogs often quickly revert back to undesirable behaviors once they are back in their home environment, leading to frustration for both the owners and the trainers who worked so hard to help them. By understanding these common pitfalls, my hope is that dog owners can be better prepared to maintain their dog's training and create a harmonious household for all.

The Eternal Novice: Lessons from a Life Spent Learning at the Feet of Canines

The Eternal Novice: Lessons from a Life Spent Learning at the Feet of Canines

All of life is a learning expedition, a pilgrimage with no final destination. In this article, I reflect on the profound lessons gleaned from a lifetime of diverse pursuits - from the ocean depths as a pioneering technical diver, to the complex world of professional dog training, to the thrills and spills of adventure motorcycle riding. Through it all, three core principles emerge as universal guides: Embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth. Cultivate a beginner's mind, staying perpetually open to new insights. And recognize that the richest rewards lie not in any fleeting achievement, but in the person we become through the process of passionate engagement.

These philosophies have been powerfully reinforced through the influence of extraordinary mentors. In my journey as an adventure motorcyclist, for instance, the masterful coaching of Bret Tkacs has been instrumental in helping me confront deep-seated fears and stretch my skills far beyond self-imposed limits. His guidance epitomizes the transformative power of apprenticeship - of being seen, challenged, and uplifted by someone further down the path. But equally profound are the insights sparked in collaboration with kindred spirits - fellow adventurers whose camaraderie and hard-won wisdom have salved and stretched me in equal measure. It's in the electric fusion of minds working as one to puzzle out a complex dog training conundrum, or in the soul-baring conversations shared around a campfire after an epic day of riding. These moments of connection stand as both cherished memories and powerful motivators, illuminating the fundamental truth that a life well-lived is one of perpetual discovery - of the world, of others, and of oneself.

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The Science Behind Why Dogs Bark: Understanding Canine Communication

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The Science Behind Why Dogs Bark: Understanding Canine Communication

The science behind barking is both fascinating and complex. Barking is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and the dog's individual experiences. Certain breeds are more prone to barking due to their genetic predispositions, while others may develop barking habits based on their environment and interactions with humans and other animals. Understanding these nuances is key to developing effective strategies for managing and reducing excessive barking.

In this article, I will explore the different reasons why dogs bark, drawing on scientific research and my own extensive experience in the field. We will look at the various types of barking, from attention-seeking and alarm barking to boredom and playfulness. I will also delve into the physiological and psychological aspects of barking, providing you with a deeper understanding of what drives this behavior. Finally, I will offer practical tips and strategies for managing and reducing excessive barking, helping you foster a more harmonious relationship with your dog.

Whether you are a new dog owner or a seasoned handler, I hope this article will provide you with valuable insights and tools to better understand and address your dog's barking. By embracing a more informed and compassionate approach, we can help our dogs communicate more effectively and live happier, more fulfilling lives. So, let's embark on this journey together and uncover the science behind why dogs bark.

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Canine Clocks: Understanding How Dogs Perceive Time

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Canine Clocks: Understanding How Dogs Perceive Time

The passage of time is a universal experience, yet the way in which it is perceived is anything but uniform across the animal kingdom. The intricate dance of evolution has endowed various species with unique sensory capabilities, allowing them to interpret their surroundings in ways that are perfectly attuned to their ecological niches and survival demands. From the rapid-response world of a buzzing housefly to the more measured pace of a serene sea turtle, time's tempo alters dramatically between species. In this article I will introduce you to fascinating concept of temporal perception, exploring how and why the experience of time can vary so widely among our planet's diverse inhabitants.

Central to our understanding of these perceptual differences is the Critical Flicker Fusion Frequency (CFF), a metric that sheds light on an animal's ability to process visual stimuli over time. With higher CFFs linked to a more acute sense of temporal change, we gain insights into the remarkable adaptations that enable certain animals, like dogs, to perceive rapid movements with astonishing clarity—arguably experiencing the world in what humans might describe as "slow motion."

Join me as I explain the neurological underpinnings and evolutionary factors contributing to this sensory spectrum, offering a glimpse into the varied experiences of time across species. We'll examine the role of predators and prey in shaping these perceptual capabilities, provide illustrative examples from the animal world, and challenge preconceived notions about the relationship between size, lifespan, and the perception of time. Prepare to expand your understanding of reality as we will look through the eyes of creatures great and small, discovering the profound impact temporal perception has on the lives of animals everywhere.

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Who's Training Whom? “The Canine Comedy of Accidental Education”

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Who's Training Whom? “The Canine Comedy of Accidental Education”

Every dog owner unwittingly doubles as a professor in the school of Pavlovian Pooches, often granting diplomas in subjects like Advanced Doorbell Barking and Intro to Leash Tug-of-War. This tongue-in-cheek exploration delves into the comedic mishaps of classical conditioning in daily dog ownership and suggests a shift towards the more deliberate approach of operant conditioning. It's time to stop scratching our heads when Fido freaks out at the sight of our sneakers and start scratching behind his ears for the right reasons. In this humor filled article I explain why we need to “De-Pavlov” ourselves and increase our “Skinnarian” powers.

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Doggy Doors Debunked: A Closer Look at Training Complications and Home Risks

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Doggy Doors Debunked: A Closer Look at Training Complications and Home Risks

Doggy doors, though convenient for pet owners, can inadvertently lead to a host of behavioral and security issues in dogs. In this article I explain the negative effects associated with the use of both traditional and electronic doggy doors, including challenges in house-training, increased territorial behavior, and potential security risks for the household.

More Than Words: How Everyday Moments Shape Dog Training and Attachment

More Than Words: How Everyday Moments Shape Dog Training and Attachment

The partnership between humans and dogs is one of the oldest and most complex interspecies relationships. While formal training sessions are important for teaching specific behaviors, especially in contexts like sport dogs, obedience competitions, or performance arts like the circus, they represent just a fraction of the daily interactions that influence a dog's behavior. In this article I present a comprehensive examination of how everyday experiences and the overall upbringing of a dog shape their perception of their human counterparts and the effectiveness of training. I also draw parallels with the dynamics of human relationships to illustrate the importance of consistent and positive daily interactions for a successful and deep-rooted human-canine bond.

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Human Decoders: Cognitive Processing of Canids in Response to Human Socio-communicative Signals

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Human Decoders: Cognitive Processing of Canids in Response to Human Socio-communicative Signals

In this article I go in-depth on the cognitive processing and communicative abilities of canines, particularly in how they respond to human socio-communicative signals. The conversation begins with a comparison of social structures between wolves and humans, highlighting the complex social systems that both species navigate.

I explain how domestication has led to refined canine abilities to interpret human gestures, such as pointing and gaze following, which are less evident in their wild counterparts or even non-human primates. The domestic dog's evolution has been shaped by selective breeding, enhancing their capacity to understand human emotional states through facial expressions and vocal intonations. This has implications for dog training and welfare, as a dog's ability to comprehend and react to human emotions and commands can be used to foster better human-canine relationships.

The discussion also touches upon social learning in dogs, which is the process by which they acquire behaviors through the observation and emulation of humans and other dogs. This ability to learn socially has been significant in the domestic dog's adaptation to human environments and is a key element in training and behavior modification.

Additionally, I explain the role of chemical signals, such as pheromones, in canine communication. Dogs use their advanced vomeronasal organ (VNO) to detect pheromones, which convey information about reproductive status, territorial boundaries, and individual identity. Hormones, too, play a crucial role in canine behavior, influencing how dogs interact with their environment and other beings based on internal and external stimuli.

Lastly, I summarize how dogs communicate with their environment and other dogs through body language, marking behavior, and the use of various sensory channels. Understanding these communicative methods is essential for enhancing the bond between humans and dogs and promoting positive interactions and training outcomes.