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 …
Chad Mackin Podcast
I’m Co-Hosting Chad Mackin’s podcast! We are going to be doing Q & A sessions, as well as interviewing other well known trainer/figures in the dog world. Check out the first one here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/introductions-and-concepts/id824504967?i=260706728&mt=2
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 …
Meditation For Dogs?
Impulse control is one of the most common problems with “problematic dogs”. They see the squirrel/postman/dog/bike, and they are gone. You do not exist to them anymore. And, the typical training responses are: A- Correct them big enough so they will listen B- If you get a high enough value treat, they would listen. C- If they “respected” you, they …
Calming Signal Or Stress Signal
Apparently, there’s a little “controversy” going on regarding “calming” signals. Some people call them calming signals, and mean that they are signals that the dog is calming down. As in, they are self soothing, and those are the “tells”. Other people say that they are “stress” signals. As in, the dog is worried and feeling anxious, and those signs are …
Adrenaline And Choices
Freeeeeedom (think braveheart)
Chad Mackin, renowned dog rehabilitation expert, told me once that “The slack leash should be the primary reinforcer”. I know from my stints of wasted time at the various correctional facilities of my youth, that being restrained is infuriating. The problem is, the way most people use the leash, it is strictly a device of restraint. It keeps them from …
I’ve Changed My View On Pit Bulls And Dog Aggression
Ok. Ring the bells. Blow smoke out of the chimney…. I’ve changed my mind about something. Now, if you know me, you realize how big a deal that is. I’m a tad stubborn. But, I think it’s only a fool that keeps their old position in the face of new evidence. So here is my revelation: All Pit Bulls are …