Dog Behavior Explained

Discover practical insights into why dogs behave the way they do and learn effective training solutions for common challenges. From reactivity and anxiety to breed-specific topics, my evidence-based articles help you and your dog navigate complex behaviors with confidence and compassion.

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The Departure Cue Myth: Why Your Vet's Separation Anxiety Advice May Be Making Things Worse

Vet says to desensitize your dog to keys? That’s wrong. Learn why focusing on departure cues fails— discover what cures separation anxiety.

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Sniffing for Success: How Nose Work Boosts Dog Sport Performance

Discover how sniffing boosts performance, focus, and recovery in sport and reactive dogs—trusted advice from Oakland’s top dog trainer.

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Why Every Dog Needs Decompression Walks (And How to Do Them Right)

Discover how decompression walks help dogs relax, reduce stress, and boost well-being. Learn how to set up the perfect sniff-filled outing!

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The Emotional Toll of Reactivity – Why It’s Not Just Your Dog Struggling

Struggling with a reactive dog in an apartment or shared space? Learn how reactivity affects both you and your dog—plus strategies to manage

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Canine Stress Explained: What Happens in Your Dog’s Body & How to Help

Learn how stress affects your dog & how to help them recover. Learn about cortisol, sniffing, & decompression walks for better well-being!

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The Science of Dog Sniffing: How It Reduces Stress and Improves Behavior

Did you know sniffing lowers stress, boosts confidence, and improves behavior? Learn why sniffing is essential for your dog’s well-being!

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A Behaviorist's Perspective: How Dogs Shape Who We Become

A reflection on how dogs change us - from the unexpected ways they adapt to our lives, to the profound lessons they teach us.

Lessons from Dogs: Finding Healing Through Compassion and Connection

Discover how working with anxious dogs became a mirror to my own healing journey. Read about empathy, growth, and transformation.

The Evolution of Dog Training: A Shift Toward Compassion and Respect

Rethink dog training: respect your dog’s emotions, prioritize well-being over control.

Embracing the Complexity of Canine Behavior: Beyond Basic Training Techniques

Explore the art and science of dog training, where personalization transforms standard methods into tailored solutions for every dog.

The Ripple Effects of Dog Agility on Health and Happiness

Explore dog agility! Learn how it boosts health and improves dog-owner communication. Click to read more and see the difference.

🔑 The Secret to Effective Dog Training: It’s Not What You Think

The secret to effective dog training lies beyond the basics. It’s about understanding our dogs as beings capable of emotions and choices.

Winging It: The Chicken Time Protocol for Harmonious Dog and Cat Introductions

Introducing a cat to a dog-ruled home? Discover the Chicken Time Protocol: a step-by-step guide for peaceful pet introductions.

Decoding Dog Training: Shifting the Conversation from Quadrants to Practicing 'Do No Harm’

Shifting the conversation from quadrants to ethical training that practices "do no harm." Learn why we must move beyond the 4 quadrants.

What Makes a Dog Trainer Truly Effective? The Research Tells All

The research says it all - truly effective dog training fuses scientifically-validated methods with real-world clinical expertise.

Sorry Boss, My Dog Doesn't Care About ROI

We often import capitalist values of maximum productivity into training our dogs. There’s a better way!

The Power of Partnering with a Pro Dog Trainer

Certified dog trainer leveraging decades of canine behavior expertise to help dogs and owners thrive. Science-based tailored solutions.

Evidence-Based Best Practices in Dog Behavior: Promoting Well-Being and Harmony

These evidence-based best practices prioritize the mental and emotional well-being of dogs.

The Truth About the Unregulated World of Dog Training Revealed Industry

The unregulated state of the dog training industry is a matter that demands attention and action.

Unleash Your Dog's Potential: How a Pro Trainer Transforms Behavior

Professional dog trainers have experience and knowledge that can significantly expedite the training process.

Featured Publications

Explore my collection of published work sharing advice and lessons discovered through dog relationships, wisdom gained from loving and training dogs, and life insights alongside practical dog behavior and training advice.

Managing Dog Reactivity in Shared Spaces: Practical Strategies for Stress-Free Living

Does your dog tense up at every hallway encounter? Living in a 'reactive building' can turn daily walks into a battlefield. Here's why reactivity spreads in apartments—and what you can do to stop it.

Loving Leroy: My First Heart Dog

A heart dog changes you forever. Leroy taught me about love, resilience, and the unexpected gifts life brings—like a small dog who carried his spirit forward in ways I never imagined.

When Goodbye Means A Meltdown: Solving Your Dog's Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety isn't just stress—it’s full-blown panic. With patience, the right approach, and modern tools, you can help your dog go from meltdown mode to mastering alone time with confidence.