Read your dog’s body language at the dog park
By Heidi Clayton It seems most people want to take their dogs to a dog park for socialization. They see it as a chance for their dog to meet other dogs and play. How much a dog can benefit or be ruined from this socialization depends on the individual dog. I say this...The dangers of alpha rolling dogs
By Heidi Clayton Numerous studies have proven that positive-based dog training works better than confrontational techniques. One confrontational method that has lost credibility is the “alpha roll,” made popular by the Monks of New Skete dog training book published in...Are dog parks good for teaching socialization?
By Heidi Clayton I was asked via email if I took my dogs to a dog park for socialization and play. The short answer is no. I am lucky that I have a large fenced yard for my dogs and have no reason to go to dog parks. The long answer is I think dog parks are an awful...Gastrointestinal problems correlated to anxiety in dogs
By Heidi Clayton A very common symptom I see associated with dogs that have anxiety or fear is the issue of frequent diarrhea, loose stool, or vomiting. I felt absolutely awful for a client who had just purchased a brand new Mercedes that was christened so to speak...Identifying leash reactivity or aggression
By Heidi Clayton One of the most common behavioral issues I am contacted regarding is leash aggression or reactivity. Which word is applicable depends on the dog standing in front of me. Aggression can be defined as being “hostile or injurious to humans or other...
