What is a working dog?

Anyone who is passionate about helping dogs live long, happy and healthy lives would say that all dogs should have some sort of job. Giving a dog a job they enjoy can help to prevent an almost endless list of potential behavior issues (such as excessive barking, inappropriate chewing and digging, separation problems, and more).Continue reading …...

The Honeymoon Period with Your New Dog

We have all heard the term ‘The Honeymoon Period’ used to describe the first, deliriously happy months of a relationship. Everyone is on their best behavior and feeling giddy and optimistic about the future. Unfortunately, this time of what seems to be limitless joy usually comes to an end. A similar, albeit usually much shorter,Continue reading …...

Dogs and doorway etiquette

Today I made a quick trip across the street to get a delicious cafe con leche from Despana, the lovely little shop with delicacies from Spain. As I went up the two steps to enter a gentleman was on his way out with his hands full, a tray of coffees in one hand and aContinue reading …...

Does your dog think its name is No?

I usually begin classes and private lessons with an introduction to the many benefits of taking a positive, dog friendly approach to teaching. I am always pleased to see nods of approval from students as I explain how punishments more often than not result in a dog engaging in owner absent behavior problems (i.e. I’llContinue reading …...

Dog park and play group etiquette

Several times a week we offer small dog socials and puppy play groups at different locations in Manhattan. These trainer moderated groups are a wonderful way to allow dogs under 20 pounds (for the small dog socials) and pups under 5 1/2 months old (for the puppy play groups) an opportunity to socialize with otherContinue reading …...

Food bowl guarding

Some dogs, like people, learn to live by the code that what is theirs is theirs and what is yours is theirs as well. Resource guarding exists because the dog sees a vital resource and is attempting to keep it for himself. It also exists because it is, in great part, a learned behavior. WhileContinue reading …...

Why do dogs roll in poop and other smelly stuff?

Anyone who has spent a Summer in New York City can understand why most urban dwellers anxiously await the coveted invitation to visit a friend in the country for a weekend. While the drive out of the city is sure to be a test of mental stamina for even the most experienced city driver, theContinue reading …...

Stereotypes and generalizations of the pit bull

Generalizations are a tricky business. On the one hand, they are necessary in order for us to more easily understand our complex world. On the other hand, by definition, generalizations don’t provide detailed information, nor are they always accurate. When it comes to dogs, people seem to be wildly fond of generalizing. Trainers frequently hearContinue reading …...

Teach your dog to come when called

Does your dog glance at you with the equivalent of a canine grin and trot off in the other direction when you call him? Don’t feel too badly, some owners might consider you lucky to have a dog that even acknowledges you with a glance! Unfortunately, it is uncommon to see a dog who boundsContinue reading …...