A Pawsitive Improvement

12/14/2024

08/24/2024

Reevaluating Dog Training Rewards: It's Not Just About Food! In this episode, Christi discusses the complexities of using reinforcements in dog training. She challenges the blanket statements against using food as rewards and emphasizes the importance of understanding the individual needs of each do...

08/16/2024

In today's episode, we dive into the second part of our review on the 'Perfect Recall' method. Join Christi Kirby-Baron, certified dog behavior consultant and fear free certified professional, as she critiques this widely discussed training technique. Watch as she dissects the original video's metho...

08/08/2024

**Discover if virtual dog training can work for you! In our latest episode, we chat with about the pros and cons of virtual lessons. Don't miss out on tips and personal insights! 🐕💻 ** Christi Kirby-Baron, CDBC, ADT, SDC, CPDT-KA, NADOI (1...

08/05/2024

Explore opinion vs fact with Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and Fear Free certified professional, Christi Kirby-Baron. Understand how the facts remain unaltered regardless of personal beliefs when it comes to getting a perfect “come” when called 100% of the time. Christi Kirby-Baron, CDBC, AD...

07/04/2024

There are hidden dangers in dog grooming! Find out by watching the full video: https://youtu.be/q8WP1oc4xYw

06/21/2024

We see tons of educational posts about this time of the year warning pet owners to keep their pets inside during the fireworks. As a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, I would like to expand on the topic of holidays that involve fireworks.

• First, DON’T WAIT until immediately before the holiday to call the Vet for medication if your dog has a history of being terrified of fireworks. They have other clients who also need to get medication and if you all wait until the last minute, someone will not be able to be seen. That’s not your dog’s fault but they will be the one who has to suffer through a traumatic time without the medication your Veterinarian believes your dog needs, so don’t procrastinate.

• The flashes of light can be as unnerving for dogs as the noise of the fireworks. Close your blinds or curtains to block out the flashes. Dogs who are comfortable in a crate might do best if crated.

• Turn on the television so the sudden sound is a little less shocking.

• Fun fact… a study has shown that while dogs do like classical music, they love some Reggae! Long-term, the effects do change, but when choosing your play list on the 4th, check out this information: https://www.dogtagart.com/blog/what-kind-music-do-dogs-best

• If you have a new puppy, BE PROACTIVE. Don’t wait to see what happens. Instead, take super yummy soft treats or dog-safe food and give your puppy a little bite after each firework sound. The puppy will learn that the big booms and pops make really good treats appear. They are more likely to feel comfortable than if you just let them be and hope for the best. Some dogs seem to do well until they are just overwhelmed and begin to show fear and panic.

• Take your dog out to potty on a leash, even if you have a fenced yard, and make sure they are wearing ID. If your dog doesn’t potty on a leash well, use a long line, but don’t take a chance. Your dog may never have tried to get out of the yard before but it only takes once for a scared dog to become a missing dog poster.

• Thunder shirts and other types of clothing can be helpful, but beware… if you have put these things on your dog before / during storms or when other upsetting events are coming, your dog may associate the clothing with impending doom. Sometimes it can make them more worried, so pay attention to your dog’s body language.

• Most importantly, each dog is an individual. While there are some universal precautions, pay attention to what your dog needs. It might not be the same thing that other dogs need.

Have a safe and happy holiday!

Christi Kirby-Baron,
CDBC, ADT, CPDT-KA, SDC
Fear Free Professional

https://doghelp.net
601-540-0393

06/07/2024

New episode is up!

In a world filled with conflicting information on effective training practices, it's hard to know the best approach for your dog. That's why Certified Dog Be...

06/04/2024

FREE PRO TIP:
How to get nothing done at all...

05/29/2024

Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bsis1Jkir2c.🔥 With so much conflicting information out there on good training practices, how do you know which one is best? Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Christi Kirby-Baron is on a mission to help educate you where it counts most: by examining the dog! Don’t fall for smooth talk, buzz words, and opinions about which training style is best. Make your own decisions by learning what to look for. 💯

Christi Kiby-Baron, CDBC, ADT, SDC, NADOI (1145/C), Fear Free Professional

Virtual Training offered: https://buff.ly/4bTilav

05/27/2024

The age to start training a puppy depends on the trainer. Training involves shaping the puppy's learning through environmental manipulation. Starting early can prevent future behavioral issues. It's important that training is enjoyable for the puppy. It's much better to address potential behavioral problems early on in a kinder and more effective manner.

Virtual Training offered: https://buff.ly/4bTilav

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05/27/2024

05/23/2024

05/22/2024

Make sure to check out our Instagram for more adorable moments with Daphne, Caper, Sam, and Boss! You'll also find valuable tips and insights. Christi is not only a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, but also a certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Fear Free Coach.