Training
Being smart about those first dog shows
By now, you have figured out that I am all about making sure that dog shows are fun for dogs. It’s only fair that if we are going to ask our dogs to participate in a sport with us, that Read more…
Training
Does being a positive reinforcement trainer equal closed mindedness?
On a recent discussion of this blog, someone commented that I am “closed minded” because of my posts and commitment to positive reinforcement training. This took me by surprise as I have always considered myself to be a very open Read more…
Body Language
Uh oh, my dog looks guilty!
The other day my cattle dog Bill ate a cupcake off of the counter. He licked the icing off another one. My husband found the crumbs of the first cupcake and the frosting missing off of the other and said, Read more…
Training
If your dog isn’t ready, then don’t enter him!
I am going to try and write this post in a way that is helpful and educational and not at all frustrated and judgmental. However, if I am being honest, I am a bit frustrated. I cannot tell you how Read more…
Behavior Modification
We’ve tried that and it didn’t work
This is an article that I wrote for one of my bird forums. Not about show dogs particularly, but about changing behavior in animals in general. I am writing this post because I come across this statement both on internet Read more…
Breeds
How much does your trainer’s breed matter?
Sometimes I get calls from potential clients who are either not in my working area or who have a dog with issues that I am not currently taking on that I need to refer to another behavior consultant. When I Read more…
Conformation classes
Puppies in Conformation Class
Yes! It’s true! I do allow young puppies in my conformation classes, in fact, I encourage it. Because the methods that I use for training show dogs (and all dogs actually) are positive reinforcement methods young puppies do great and Read more…
Equipment
Choke Chains – Are They Really Necessary?
Frequently, I meet novice show people who seem to be under the impression that using a choke chain is mandatory in the show ring. This is probably because when they have showed up at a dog show with their dog Read more…
Positive Reinforcement
Getting Reinforced for Reinforcing Others
I went to the Golden Gate Kennel Club dog show on Sunday. It was the first the show where I brought my Dog Shows are Fun! cards and charms. I gave out three of them and it felt great! The Read more…