How Calming Signals Opened My Eyes VERY Wide
When I crossed over last year to positive training, one of the biggest “ah-ha!” moments I had was when I learned about calming signals. I wondered how I could have been so blind to them all along as they made perfect sense! See my first post “A Guide to Calming Signals.” I had been a…
Puppy Show Dog Practice!
As many of you found out recently, I added a big character to my little family. Clark is a Cardigan Welsh Corgi and ever since I got him in January, I’ve done my best to take him places and meet lots of people and dogs. One of the things many people forget about when they…
Guest Post: Service Dog Training Transition
About a month ago I received an email from one of my readers that said I just wanted to thank you for this site. I am crossing over. I am blind and am on my third guide dog. I received my first two from a program. They were lovely dogs, but they taught using training…
K9 Nose Work
Since I got Clark, my new Cardigan Welsh Corgi puppy, I have noticed the powers of nose work. So far, he is still searching for food. I have not transitioned him to any specific scents yet. The other day I had some packaging paper left over and I thought I’d let the dogs have some…
Arousal Levels in Dogs
After a recent seminar by Suzanne Clothier, I’ve really been reflecting on how arousal plays a role in behavior. I had not really thought about it before. I have seen lots of people use play as a reward for correct behavior. Suzanne has really made me question my choice in raising arousal levels. One of…
How to Be a Pack Leader – The 21st Century Way!
I once believed I needed to be a pack leader. I was a huge fan of a certain Dog Whisperer and I was skilled at making many dogs listen to me. These days, though, I have a slightly different perspective on being a good pack leader. How to Be a Pack Leader Being a good…
Loose Leash Walking with a Ghost
I recently attended a weekend long seminar by Suzanne Clothier. She is so wise when it comes to understanding dogs and she is a strong believer in putting responsibility on the dog to work with you. This weekend I came to the realization that positive reinforcement training can become a crutch for some dogs. As…
Welcome Home Clark!
If you follow my blog you know that there has been a special addition to the family recently. I want to give him a special introduction. His name is Clark (AKA Superman) the Cardigan Corgi! He is a confident little guy who has big dreams of competing in Rally or Obedience, becoming a therapy dog,…