Chimo is 14 1/2. That’s on the upper end of life expectancy for a Black Lab Mix. She struggles getting up sometimes and her walking is unsteady. But, she goes through her daily routines like a trooper. All things considered she’s pretty healthy. Her hearing is fading but her eye sight is good and she still likes to sniff around.… read more →
It’s important to remember how closely related the family dog is to it’s wolf roots. Genetically speaking dogs are much more closely related to wolves than we are to chimps and gorillas. We adopt dogs and treat them as people. Yet, your dog’s inner wolf will not be denied. Dogs and wolves are territorial and need to explore their environment,… read more →
There’s lots of advice about walking your dog on a leash. If you use the “training” method to extreme, you can make your dog walk obediently by your right side and then immediately sit when you stop. All the while your dog will ignore every distraction. If that is what you want, go for it! To me it smacks of… read more →
Trainers require discipline. The objective is behavior modification. Trainers demand obedience. The inner feelings of those being trained are of little concern. Compliance is assumed and original thought is discouraged. Training might be the best path for you and your dog, if your primary goals are obedience and submission. Why not consider teaching instead? Why not inspire your dog to… read more →
Separation anxiety is among the most common afflictions that plague family dogs. It’s an affliction because it’s a very real psychological condition that produces suffering. If it isn’t addressed and becomes chronic, it will seriously disrupt family life. It too often results in a sad trip to the local animal shelter. The irony is that the deep bonding and devotion… read more →
One of my neighbors keeps their German Shepard in the garage. The garage has a small outside yard enclosed with a chain link fence. The sign says “Beware of Dog”. When they got the dog, as a puppy, she was bred as soon as possible. They sold her puppies and made a nice profit. The family has kids but they… read more →
For as long as there have been people “training” dogs, the dog treat has been a tool box staple. Most dog’s will eagerly comply to earn the reward. Like mice in a lab experiment their behavior can be manipulated with a simple reward for the forced behavioral scheme. In the mind of the dog it is a simple transaction –… read more →
Some dogs become extremely agitated around fireworks. No doubt the explosive sound can be very upsetting. If your dog is susceptible to fireworks distress, you will discover it right away. Depending on how sever the reaction is comforting and reassuring your dog might not be enough to overcome the anxiety. The simple solution is to keep your dog away from… read more →
The events at the Cincinnati Zoo made me realize that it is cruel to keep gorillas in captivity. My response is in this YouTube video. If you agree, please share and spread the word.
JP Morgan Chase is running a new commercial for their Chase Freedom card. If you haven’t seen it, here is how they describe it: “Watch as these adorable dogs rock costumes ranging from leprechauns to baskets of balloons and patriotic outfits (including the tiny striped hat). Oh, and don’t forget the Chihuahua wearing the bling.” Watching it made me cringe.… read more →