Animal Behavioral Sciene , Behavior Modification
Bart De Gols
More Than a Nap: The Essential Role of Sleep in ...

As a cynologist, I can’t emphasize enough how vital sleep is for dogs, playing a role as crucial to their well-being as it does for humans. Sleep serves as a cornerstone for a dog’s physical health, emotional stability, and cognitive functioning. Yet, in my experience, many pet owners often overlook the importance of quality sleep for their canine companions, unknowingly fostering environments that disrupt their dog’s rest. Just as we need adequate sleep to process daily experiences and maintain balance, so do our dogs. However, unlike humans, dogs don’t typically experience extended, uninterrupted periods of sleep; instead, they rely on frequent, shorter cycles of rest throughout the day and night to stay in equilibrium. When this delicate balance is disrupted, a host of behavioral issues can arise, from mild irritability to severe anxiety.

Often, when I see behavioral issues in dogs, they’re attributed to things like a lack of exercise, insufficient training, or stress in the environment. What goes unnoticed, however, is how frequently sleep deprivation is an underlying factor. A dog that appears hyperactive, reactive, or even destructive may, in fact, be sleep-deprived and simply unable to regulate its emotions and impulses. This connection between sleep and behavior becomes especially crucial with high-energy breeds and working dogs, who need significant time to mentally and physically recover. When these dogs don’t get enough rest, their overstimulated minds and bodies fail to reset, leading to impulsive and problematic behaviors that only escalate over time.

The impact of sleep deprivation doesn’t just stop at behavior—it can take a serious toll on a dog’s overall health. Chronic lack of sleep affects memory, weakens the immune system, and often leads to emotional instability, making dogs more vulnerable to fear-based reactions and even aggression. In sleep, dogs consolidate memories and process learning; when they don’t get enough rest, their ability to retain training and recall commands is compromised. Over time, these effects compound, creating a vicious cycle in which sleep-deprived dogs become increasingly difficult to manage, frustrating owners who are unaware of the root cause.

In this article, I’ll take you through the profound role that sleep plays in a dog’s life and its direct connection to behavioral health. I will explain the biological, neurological, and psychological dimensions of canine sleep to offer a comprehensive understanding of how lack of rest can drive behavioral issues. Additionally, I’ll share practical strategies for promoting better sleep hygiene in dogs, helping you recognize signs of sleep deprivation and foster environments where restful sleep is possible.

More Than a Nap: The Essential Role of Sleep in Canine Health and Happiness
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

obedience

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More Than a Nap: The Essential Role of Sleep in Canine Health and Happiness

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More Than a Nap: The Essential Role of Sleep in Canine Health and Happiness

As a cynologist, I can’t emphasize enough how vital sleep is for dogs, playing a role as crucial to their well-being as it does for humans. Sleep serves as a cornerstone for a dog’s physical health, emotional stability, and cognitive functioning. Yet, in my experience, many pet owners often overlook the importance of quality sleep for their canine companions, unknowingly fostering environments that disrupt their dog’s rest. Just as we need adequate sleep to process daily experiences and maintain balance, so do our dogs. However, unlike humans, dogs don’t typically experience extended, uninterrupted periods of sleep; instead, they rely on frequent, shorter cycles of rest throughout the day and night to stay in equilibrium. When this delicate balance is disrupted, a host of behavioral issues can arise, from mild irritability to severe anxiety.

Often, when I see behavioral issues in dogs, they’re attributed to things like a lack of exercise, insufficient training, or stress in the environment. What goes unnoticed, however, is how frequently sleep deprivation is an underlying factor. A dog that appears hyperactive, reactive, or even destructive may, in fact, be sleep-deprived and simply unable to regulate its emotions and impulses. This connection between sleep and behavior becomes especially crucial with high-energy breeds and working dogs, who need significant time to mentally and physically recover. When these dogs don’t get enough rest, their overstimulated minds and bodies fail to reset, leading to impulsive and problematic behaviors that only escalate over time.

The impact of sleep deprivation doesn’t just stop at behavior—it can take a serious toll on a dog’s overall health. Chronic lack of sleep affects memory, weakens the immune system, and often leads to emotional instability, making dogs more vulnerable to fear-based reactions and even aggression. In sleep, dogs consolidate memories and process learning; when they don’t get enough rest, their ability to retain training and recall commands is compromised. Over time, these effects compound, creating a vicious cycle in which sleep-deprived dogs become increasingly difficult to manage, frustrating owners who are unaware of the root cause.

In this article, I’ll take you through the profound role that sleep plays in a dog’s life and its direct connection to behavioral health. I will explain the biological, neurological, and psychological dimensions of canine sleep to offer a comprehensive understanding of how lack of rest can drive behavioral issues. Additionally, I’ll share practical strategies for promoting better sleep hygiene in dogs, helping you recognize signs of sleep deprivation and foster environments where restful sleep is possible.

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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Mind Over Manner: From Behavioral Conditioning to Cognitive Mind State Management

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Mind Over Manner: From Behavioral Conditioning to Cognitive Mind State Management

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.

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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.

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Winged Rats and Loyal Companions: Insights for Dog Owners from the Pigeon Story

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Winged Rats and Loyal Companions: Insights for Dog Owners from the Pigeon Story

As I delve deeper into the world of falconry, I've encountered a common perception among my peers who often refer to pigeons as "rats with wings." This derogatory term prompted me to reflect on the true story of pigeons, a story that is far richer and more complex than many realize. Pigeons, often dismissed as mere urban pests, have a profound history intertwined with human civilization. Domesticated over thousands of years, they have served us in remarkable ways—from sacred symbols and messengers in ancient civilizations to life-saving couriers during world wars. Their resilience and adaptability, despite being abandoned and vilified in modern cities, highlight the deep and often overlooked connections between humans and animals.

The story of pigeons underscores the importance of empathy and ethical treatment in all human-animal relationships. The lessons learned from their history remind us of our responsibility to care for the animals we domesticate and the far-reaching consequences of our actions. For dog owners and animal enthusiasts alike, this tale offers valuable insights into fostering compassionate and informed approaches to training and cohabitation with our animal companions. Understanding the pigeons' plight can help us approach our relationships with our pets, especially dogs, with greater empathy and responsibility, ensuring a harmonious coexistence.

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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.

Training the Hunting Dog

Training the Hunting Dog

The journey of training a hunting dog is as rewarding as it is challenging. It involves a commitment to ongoing education for the handler and a dedication to the well-being and development of the dog. Handlers must be attuned to their dog's body language and emotional state, ensuring that the training process is a positive and enjoyable experience for the animal. This approach not only fosters a more willing and eager hunting partner but also ensures that the dog's welfare is always a top priority.

By prioritizing the relationship with the dog and utilizing science-based training techniques, a handler sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling hunting experience. With this foundation in place, let's delve into the specific behaviors and skills necessary for a hunting dog to assist its handler effectively in the field.

Training Techniques Unleashed: Why Relationship-Based Methods Lead the Pack.

Training Techniques Unleashed: Why Relationship-Based Methods Lead the Pack.

Over the centuries, the dynamics of dog training have continuously transformed, reflecting the evolving perspectives on animal intelligence and emotions. As we have grown to better understand the cognitive and emotional capacities of dogs, the techniques we use in their training have also shifted. The earliest methods stemmed from a belief in dominance and submission, using harsh, corrective tactics to establish human control. However, as our knowledge expanded, so too did our training methods, which now range from those employing aversive stimuli to discourage bad behaviors to those using positive reinforcement to encourage good ones. Mixed methods attempt to blend these approaches, but they can lead to inconsistency and confusion. Relationship-based training, the most contemporary approach, integrates a deep understanding of canine psychology, focusing on the bond between dog and owner to foster a cooperative and mutually respectful learning environment. The philosophy behind this method is grounded in the ethical treatment of animals and the psychological impact of the training process. This article aims to juxtapose these varied methods and demonstrate why relationship-based training is the most humane and psychologically sound approach to nurturing a well-behaved and emotionally stable canine.

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Help my dog is a Teenager! Exploring the adolescent phase of our Canis Lupus Familiaris.

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Help my dog is a Teenager! Exploring the adolescent phase of our Canis Lupus Familiaris.

Just like humans, dogs also go through an adolescent phase characterized by behavioral and physiological changes. Understanding these aspects can provide valuable insights into the behavioral and emotional development of our dogs during this critical period. Adolescent dogs, typically between six and eighteen months of age, often exhibit conflict behaviors characterized by a struggle between their innate instincts, their genetic desire for independence and the relationship they have with the human. This period is marked by a testing of boundaries, increased curiosity, a perceived diminished responsiveness to “commands” from the human, and occasional unruly behaviors. These manifestations can be frustrating for dog owners who previously enjoyed the compliant nature of their puppy.

Choosing a professional dog trainer to board and train your dog? Yes or no?

If you ask my professional opinion If you should hire a professional dog trainer to train your dog, my honest answer is no. This will sound weird to most of you as I talk against my own business. Don’t get me wrong dog training is what put bread on my table and food for my family but I would not recommend sending my own dogs to a professional dog trainers in many cases.