My Positive Dog

06/11/2025

This is a courtesy post, but I do know this dog well. I will forward all enquiries on to the owner. She is a very sweet little girl and if I didn't already have 3 dogs, I would have her!

06/11/2025

With lots of summer vacations and camping trips coming up, I would like to share (again) basic safety when travelling with your dog/s. Actually... I want this to become a law, just like it became law for all human beings to be safely seat belted. What do you think?

Restrain your dogs!

In any vehicle ALL dogs should always be tethered by a harness and seatbelt clip, or placed in a secured crate while traveling in a vehicle for several important reasons:

1. Safety in case of accidents: In the event of a sudden stop or collision, an unsecured dog can become a projectile, which is dangerous both for the dog and other passengers. A properly secured harness and seatbelt clip or a strong crate significantly reduces the risk of injury.

2. Use of quality, safety-tested equipment: The seatbelt clip used should be of high quality and crash-tested for safety. Inexpensive or poorly made clips may fail under pressure, offering little protection in an emergency. Investing in a reputable, safety-certified product ensures the restraint system functions as intended.

3. Prevention of driver distraction: An unrestrained dog may move around the vehicle, jump onto the driver, or interfere with controls. Proper restraint helps keep the driver focused and reduces the risk of an accident.

4. Protection when doors open: A restrained dog cannot suddenly jump out of the vehicle when a door is opened—whether by you at a stop or, god forbid, in the chaos following an accident. This prevents the dog from bolting into traffic, becoming lost, or approaching emergency responders in a panic. Restraint provides an added layer of security and control in unpredictable moments.

5. Dog’s protection from injury: A well-fitted harness attached to a secure seatbelt clip, or a sturdy crate, keeps the dog stable during travel, protecting them from injury caused by sudden movements or stops.

6. Compliance with the law: Some regions legally require pets to be restrained in vehicles. Using appropriate safety equipment ensures you're following regulations and helps avoid fines or penalties.

7. Comfort and reduced stress: Dogs generally feel more secure when they are safely contained. A crate offers a familiar and calm environment, while a harness and seatbelt prevent them from being tossed around, making the journey more comfortable and less stressful.

In short, using a high-quality, safety-tested seatbelt clip or a secure/and secured crate isn’t just about comfort—it’s critical for protecting your dog’s life, your safety, and the safety of everyone else on the road.

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06/01/2025

After being nominated for the Best Dog Trainer award For My Positive Dog, I am now through to the voting round (Whoo Hoo). Now every vote counts..
Thank you so much for nominating me, now the real fun begins.... Go to The Best of Kamloops Now to vote
https://bestof.kamloopsbcnow.com/

06/01/2025

Thank you so much for nominating me, now the real fun begins.... https://bestof.kamloopsbcnow.com/

06/01/2025

A sincere thank you to all my clients that nominated me for the 2025 award for best Dog Trainer. I am really chuffed. And now the actual voting begins... . https://bestof.kamloopsbcnow.com/votes/

05/13/2025

Do our dogs experience similar emotions to us? Dogs experience a range of emotions very similar to those of humans — and this matters a lot for how we live, work, and communicate with them.
Key emotions dogs share with humans include:
Joy (playfulness, affection)
Fear (reaction to threat, stress)
Anger (frustration, guarding behavior)
Disgust (avoiding unpleasant tastes or smells)
Sadness (loss, separation)
Love/attachment (bonding with humans or other dogs)
Some scientists (like Dr. Jaak Panksepp, who studied emotional systems in mammals) propose that the basic emotional systems in the brain — like SEEKING (curiosity), FEAR, RAGE, and CARE — are ancient and shared across many species, including dogs and humans. These emotions evolved because they help animals survive and navigate complex social environments.
Why this matters:
Training and learning: Dogs learn better when they feel safe, curious, and motivated. Fear or frustration can block learning or create new problems.
Behavior problems: Many so-called "behavior issues" are rooted in emotional states (like fear-aggression or separation anxiety). Recognizing the emotion helps fix the problem compassionately, rather than just suppressing the behavior.
Welfare and ethical care: Understanding that dogs have real emotional experiences reminds us to treat them with respect, patience, and kindness.
Communication: When we recognize a dog's emotional state, we can adjust our body language, tone, and behavior to support a better relationship.
In short, emotions aren't just "extra" — they're fundamental to how dogs experience their world, just like they are for us.

02/26/2025

For positive, convenient, compassionate training for all dogs and their people.

Convenient, compassionate training for you and your dogs.

02/26/2025

Convenient, compassionate training for you and your dogs.

01/18/2025

For all those that 'wonder?'.....
Why do personal dog trainers cost so much?, this is my take on the subject...

Paying for a good positive dog trainer goes beyond just attending a class or session; it’s an investment in expertise, time, and your dog's well-being. Here’s why it’s worth it:
1. Expertise and Knowledge
• A positive dog trainer has extensive education in canine behavior, learning theory, and species-appropriate methods.
• They understand how to tailor techniques to suit your dog’s individual needs, breed tendencies, and personality.
• They avoid harmful, outdated methods that can damage trust and cause behavioral problems.
2. Customized Training Plans
• Trainers don’t just show up and wing it; they carefully assess your dog and your goals.
• They develop individualized plans that address your dog’s specific challenges while considering their emotional welfare.
3. Time Behind the Scenes
• For every hour spent with you, a trainer may spend additional hours planning, problem-solving, and updating techniques to ensure progress.
• They evaluate your dog's progress and tweak strategies based on real-world results.
4. Hands-On Experience
• A professional trainer has worked with countless dogs of different temperaments and behaviors, giving them insights into what works and why.
• They can troubleshoot issues quickly and effectively, saving you frustration.
5. Tools for Success
• You’re not just paying for sessions; you’re gaining tools, skills, and confidence to handle your dog independently.
• Trainers empower you to continue progress at home, ensuring long-term success.
6. Behavioral Prevention
• Good training prevents small issues from becoming big problems, which can save you time and money in the long run.
• Proper socialization and training reduce the risk of reactivity, anxiety, and aggression.
7. Peace of Mind
• Knowing your dog is being trained using kind, science-backed methods builds trust and strengthens your bond with your dog.
• You can rest assured that your dog’s emotional and physical well-being is a top priority.
8. Value for the Future
• Investing in a trainer now means having a well-behaved, happy dog for years to come.
• It reduces stress, enhances your daily life, and can make your dog a joy to live with.
Much like you would expect to pay a Plumber/Electrician/Construction worker and many other professional trades and even Doctors and Nurses. A professional positive dog trainer is like hiring a specialist for your dog, a professional dog trainer is a project manager, counsellor, a teacher and he/she wears many other ‘coats’ of education, someone who has put in countless our of research, training courses, attending seminars and workshops, and joined reputable professional Canine certified programs and is always, always updating their own knowledge in line with current scientific research available.—someone who not only trains your pet but educates you, supports your journey, and helps create a harmonious relationship between you and your furry companion.

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12/27/2024

This is my sister Chris… please take note at this difficult time.