Articles

Dogs + Behavior & Training

Puppy Behavior and Training: Socialization and Fear Prevention

Providing puppies with positive socialization experiences may prevent the development of future fears. Puppy socialization must be done gently to avoid accidentally causing fear. Puppies are most primed for socialization before the age of 14 weeks. By taking precautions, some careful socialization can and should be done even before puppies have completed their entire vaccination series.
Pyrenean Shepherd

A herder through and through, the Pyr Shep is an energetic dog that needs a job. They become very attached to their owners, with a keen sense of their mood.
Rat Terrier

Observant, devoted, and lively, Ratties make great companions and family dogs. They love to play, but they want to be with you, so they suit families who want a friend and playmate.
Redbone Coonhound

While hunting is still his first love, the Redbone Coonhound is a laid back hound generally content to lounge around the house and yard.
Reducing Fear and Stress with Desensitization and Counterconditioning

Counterconditioning occurs when the pet's reaction (emotional response) to a stimulus is changed from one that is anxious or fearful to one that is positive and enjoyable. To accomplish this, favored rewards should be paired with each exposure to the stimulus.
Reducing Fear of Veterinary Visits for Dogs

Many dogs experience fear associated with veterinary visits. Once recognized, fear can be reduced with gentle handling techniques and structured behavior modification exercises such as desensitization and counterconditioning. Medications that reduce anxiety can be given before the visit, while full sedation may be needed for some fearful dogs or certain procedures. Over time, dogs can learn to cooperate in their care.
Search and Rescue Dogs

The heroic dogs involved in search and rescue missions optimize their natural abilities to help distressed people.
Seizure Assistance Dogs

Dogs do so much more than entertain us with tricks or accompany us on walks. Their abilities as service dogs are astounding. Gaining in popularity, dogs that assist people who have seizures play an important role in the lives of their owners.
Separation Anxiety in Dogs

Separation anxiety describes dogs that usually are overly attached or dependent on family members. They become extremely anxious and show distress behaviors such as vocalization, destruction, or house-soiling when separated from the owners.
Should My Dog Sleep in My Bed?

Whether you and your dog decide to share a bed is a personal choice that involves several factors. The health of you and your dog should be taken into consideration as well as any behavioral issues your dog may have. There can be many benefits for both you and your dog to co-sleep if the circumstances align.