Dog Training: Is it Only a Luxury?
I’ve been thinking a lot recently about what to write for this week’s blog, and this topic is always on my mind. Dog training has...
Mary and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Neighbor AKA, why I Don’t Use Fear in My Training
I’m going to start this blog post with a story; it’s going to seem like a longwinded, irrelevant story, but I promise I have a point!...
"When can I stop giving my dog treats?"
This is probably one of the top 3 questions I get asked as a dog trainer, and I totally get it! Having to remember to bring treats and...
My Mean Dog
A few weeks ago I was working with Regis (my recovering reactive beagle mix) when we were bum-rushed by an off leash doodle. I know this...
Myth Busting Monday: "Positive reinforcement doesn't work for some dogs."
There are many variations of this myth: positive reinforcement doesn't work for "tough" breeds, positive reinforcement doesn't work for...
We Need to Talk About the F Word
Alright folks. It's intervention time. We need to talk about your use of the "F" word. You've been using it all over the place, and I...
Tips for Owning a Landshark
So, you brought home your new dog and you're excited to get started on training. You lure your dog into a sit, and when his butt hits the...
A Note of Thanks
This past Saturday I spent my afternoon giving a seminar about dog training and behavior myths to a group of dog guardians and dog lovers...
My name is Mary Thompson, I'm a positive dog trainer, and I said "no" today
I did it. It happened today. I was cooking something in the kitchen, and Phoebe threw herself at the door. She had just been out. I KNEW...
My Walking Rules for YOU
"How do I make my dog stay next to me?" "Should I allow my dog to walk ahead of me? Or will he think he's in charge?" "How do I make my...
