Generally speaking, there are three types of dog training methods: discipline- or aversive-based, reward-based and balanced. Aversive-based training relies on using emotional or physical discomfort to ...

“Balanced” is one of the more deceitful words used in the unregulated field of dog training. This approach utilizes both positive reinforcement (rewards-based) methods and aversives (physical ...

The importance of using reward-based methods to train dogs is widely known, yet some people still use aversive methods. By definition, both reward-based and aversive methods work to change behavior, ...

There are many things I love about working in animal welfare. One is that it’s an evolving field. The more we learn about animals (and the humans connected to them), the more our strategies and ...

Your tone of voice and volume play a significant role in your dog’s development and how you bond. Yelling at your dog can make your dog nervous and fearful. How you communicate with your dog speaks ...

Photo from left: Anne Swan, Sara Munro, Jill Atamian Hall, Joan Hunter Mayer and Andrea Bratt (Santa Barbara Positive Dog Trainers photo) Noozhawk’s Four-Legged Friends and More Guide is officially ...

For dog owners struggling with hyperactive dogs or excitable new puppies, maintaining a sense of calm can be a challenge. If you’ve exhausted yourself, but not your dog, playing endlessly with them ...

Adopting a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it’s not without its challenges, especially when your new pal brings along bad habits. Difficult and destructive behaviors often have ...