If you’re a dog trainer with an interest in rehabbing dog aggression…… Please. Throw the “Break Stick” away. Look, I know why you have them. It’s a logical mistake to make. You want to break up a fight that involves at least one committed dog. (a concern you NEED to address if you work in rehab). Well….. Who has the …
Spring Pole: Good Or Bad?
I’ve gotten this question a few times in the last couple of days. Thought I’d share my response here since a few other people may have the same question. Enjoy: Question: “What are your thoughts on people who tie a tug and let the dog hang? ……..What’s the purpose?” (old school shot of a tree Spring Pole) My Answer: “Back …
Those “Graduation” Moments
This is Firkin. She used to be super reactive. If anyone listens to the Podcast…. She’s the one that snapped the long line and went Zombie style on the door I narrowly exited. But that was then……. THIS. Is now. This was outside a Starbucks in a strip mall. There’s a grocery store, a pet store, and a children’s bus …
Another Second Chance Dog
“Pack Structure”
I’ve been wanting to write this for a while but……. Every time I try, I feel like my head will explode. Giving it another shot: Pack structure. When, I got into dog training it was to help troubled dogs. To that end everyone was talking about various ways to enforce what many times is referred to as “Pack Structure”. There …
Actually…. You Should Treat Your Dog Like Your Kid.
Kind of really sick of the argument that you shouldn’t treat your dog like your kid. Maybe you should. Look, I know what they mean. I’m not stupid. I don’t advocate “babying” your dog. I think the infantilization of dogs (and human kids…. don’t get me started) is a HUGE problem. But it’s not a problem because you’re treating them …
Advanced Socialization Seminar: Saco Maine!
Finish Forward Dogs presents… Pack to Basics™ Advanced Socialization Solutions with Chad Mackin! When: Saturday April 26 & Sunday April 27, 2014 Where: 30 Spring Hill Rd. Saco, ME. 04072 Contact: Shannan Nutting, Jay Jack, and Amanda Buckner info@finishforwarddogs.com 207-251-2296 Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (Both days, may run slightly longer.) Fee: $349 per person/dog *All spaces are on …
Under Pressure Pt:1
I’m not talking about the Queen song. I’m talking about the pressure we put on dogs to train them. And…. We all do it. Not just the guy with the alpha rolls and prong collars. Yes. You do it too. With your haltis and front clip harnesses. Oh, you don’t use those. You only use clickers and cookies. Guess what …
7 Mistakes You’re Making In Behavior Modification
I found a really cool article on Sacramento Dog Behavior on the 7 common mistakes people make in their Behavior Modification work. It’s really interesting. Check it out: 7 Mistakes You’re Making In Behavior Modification YOU’RE TOO CLOSE Are you afraid of spiders? Me too. But I’m not running around and screaming because of the freakishly large spiders in South …