GoodBoy

19/08/2024

"It's just a dog!"

The phrase often said when trying to justify either an inappropriate method of training or giving up on the animal.

"They're purposely not listening."

The phrase often said when people become frustrated that their dog doesn't learn a new skill as fast as they want...despite human children often needing and receiving more education to learn basic skills.

"It's okay! I'm a dog lover."

The phrase often spoken by the public when a dog feels threatened by their presence and the human doesn't respect or acknowledge their warnings. Often times still attempting to hold a hand out and make direct eye contact with high pitched greeting.

"You need to show them who's the Alpha."

This phrase is only spoken by a beta and should otherwise be disregarded as any authority on animal training, husbandry or life lessons.

"My dog could never...."

A phrase spoken when vastly underestimating the potential in a dog when understanding, time and commitment is shown.

"They're nothing like us!"

The phrase often said when there is a lack of knowledge and understanding in dealing with behaviors in mammals.
When a human feels threatened, do we often not fight back, yell, posture?
If a human fears loosing prized items, do we not also become overly protective towards those items?
If someone suddenly comes onto your land, do you not also suddenly become concerned?

After years of working with animals, I have started feeling like all I do is try to convince people that their animal is not a lost cause.
They're not as dumb as one might think.
And while there are differences in behavioral development and the obvious physical differences...the similarities are more common that we like to admit.

We take these dogs into our homes and expect more from them than we expect from eachother.
-Be our therapist.
-Watch the property.
-Protect the family.
-Obey all the rules in the house.
-Know friend from foe.
-Be a playmate (when i want)....etc
-Save our lives.

And when they can't learn or adjust in unrealistic amount of time and without appropriate education and understanding. Or setting them to tasks that they're not suited for...then it's their fault.
Never would we demand so much from our own kind in such a short amount of time and lack of education as we demand from our pups.

At the end of the day, we're all just mammals with much in common.

~Benjamin McGill, M.C.B Owner of GoodBoy animal training.

17/08/2024

Meet Winston! This handsome boy has made amazing strides in his behaviors and training with the help and consistency from his people! Way to go Winston!

🐶

16/08/2024

🐾 **Focus on the Positive!** 🐾

We know it can be easy to dwell on the chewed-up shoes or the "accidents" on the carpet, but did you know that shifting your focus to your pup’s *positive* behavior can make a world of difference?

Instead of stressing over the occasional mishap, celebrate the small victories—whether it’s your dog sitting calmly before a walk or learning a new command. By highlighting these improvements, not only will you see your dog in a more positive light, but you'll also boost their confidence and make training more effective.

Remember, every little success is a step towards a well-behaved pup! 🐶✨

13/08/2024

G'day guys! Gotta website coming soon with a .com.au
Geelong is the perfect place to reconnect back home and be the start of GoodBoy Australia 🥰
~Ben McGill, M.C.B Owner of GoodBoy

12/08/2024

🎒✨ **Back to School for Kids AND Pups!** 🐾📚

We are bringing back our back to school sale for one last week!! While the kids hit the books, why not give your dog some valuable lessons too? 🎓🐶

📢 **Special Offer: 10% OFF 6 Lessons!** 📢

Whether it’s learning new tricks, improving behavior, mastering obedience, or addressing aggression and reactivity, our expert trainers at GoodBoy are here to help your dog shine.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to give your pup the best education while the kids are busy with theirs!

Call or message us today here or at (270) 991-6910 or click the link below to purchase a gift card using promo code BACK2SCHOOL!!

Sale ends 08/16/2024

11/08/2024

The end of the Covid-19 lockdown was the start of a horrible new life for countless animals worldwide. And it still continues.

Going into the Covid lockdown was a time of fear and panic for us all around the world. As we've always done, we turned to our animals. In many cases, adopting them.

We used these amazing dogs as our support and comfort to get us through these tough and uncertain times. If you're like me, you might have even watched your Governor give updates while holding them.

During lockdown, you gave all of your attention, love, and care to your animal. Almost everything revolved around them because it was them that pulled us through when we were at our lowest.

Skip forward several months and suddenly you found yourself getting ready to go back into the outside world...but the animal you brought in only knows you, and you are leaving.

Shelters across the world suddenly became overrun as the need and want of these animals suddenly ended. Many shelters, vets, behaviorists, and rescues quickly realized that pups during Covid were not properly socialized, leading many to face a grim end.

Many more were bounced from home to shelter. Home to shelter. Home back to shelter in a never ending cycle.

Even well into 2024, we still see the "Covid pup" with deep seeded anxiety. This anxiety displays as fear based aggression, dog on dog aggression, barrier aggression....etc.
The result today is the added pressure due to shelters being overrun with dogs and pups.

If you're reading this and feel you might have made this mistake with your dog, remember that you didn't know what you didn't know. We often believe that surrendering a dog to the shelter would mean that their lives will suddenly improve.

But, there are things you absolutely can do to help.

-Ofter to volunteer at your local humane society or rescue.

-Donate food, cleaning supplies...things that they need. Many are underfunded.

-Adopt! Many dogs on our service program are shelter dogs and rescues. And they do AMAZING! My pup "Bowie" is my shelter seizure alert service dog. Some even become therapy dogs.

-Work with the dog you have. Give them your all to help them thrive.

Dogs aren't as infallible as we believe they can be. They hurt, love, fear, and grieve.
But they are adaptive, intelligent and capable to learn, adjust, and grow into the perfect companion if you're ready to meet their breeds needs.

~Benjamin McGill, M.C.B Owner of GoodBoy animal training.

11/08/2024

Jake!

10/08/2024

Meet Memphis!

This sweet boy has made amazing strides at learning to not react to new people or door bells!

🐶

09/08/2024

Leash walking two dogs at the same time is no easy task! But with patience, consistency, and redirection, these girls are absolutely doing their best on their walks!

🐶

08/08/2024

This little doll of a puppy is learning her manners. With the love and support of her family, she'll grow into a wonderful companion.

🐶

07/08/2024

It's strange how many unbelievably angry people go off at me for saying.
A Border Collie should not be treated as a French Bulldog.
A French Bulldog should not be treated as a Labrador retriever.
A Labrador retriever should be not be treated as a cat.
A cat should only be treated as the diety they are.

06/08/2024

Anthropomorphization:
When you fully understand this meaning, you better understand the "why" and "how" in many issues facing animals with depression, anxiety and reactivity.

~Ben McGill, M.C.B Owner of GoodBoy animal training.

04/08/2024

I truly believe that if Steve Irwin were alive today, he would have a dedicated group of people who hated him for how he treated animals.

Steve always treated every species he worked with, as the species they were, not forcing them to change their nature.

More and more I find myself trying to convince people to "let the dog go outside, it's okay if they get a little dirty" or "your snake is arboreal and can't just be confined to a small tub." Or "Your working breed dog is not happy being still and lazy in your one bedroom apartment with nothing to keep them active and thinking."

It seems in this next generation of animal husbandry, we're deciding that all animals are now going to become (and be treated as) our little babies.

Now, is it okay to refer to your furry, feathered, scaly friend as such? Of course!
Is it okay to treat them as human babies...absolutely not at all.

As we see this change taking place, so to do we see more and more stressed out animals. Ones with a lack of structure and mental enrichment...but tons and tons of random toys and bags of treats.

What Steve Irwin did is create an environment that was enriching for the animals he had. Not attempt to force the animals to adjust to his environment.

Taking your Border Collie or herding, working, hunting, breed on a 10 minute walk (as long as you remember, it's not raining or just not feeling upto it) once a day, is not cutting it.

Locking your pyrenees or Shepherd breed in a kennel all day and then keeping'em in a small apartment, but still expecting the dog to be still and always cuddling...not cutting it.

Keeping your African grey parrot in a small enclosure with a few items that you've not replaced...is not cutting it.

When you bring an animal into your life. It is so important to understand what that animal is and have a structured enrichment routine and appropriate setup for the breed/species before you take in the animal.

Anything less than what your animal needs is a disservice to your best friend.

Be kind to your animals, enrich their lives (in a way that's appropriate for them). Keep them thinking. Keep them exploring. Give them understanding and structure and you will keep them happy.

~Benjamin McGill, M.C.B Owner of GoodBoy animal training.

Picture taken while visiting local aquarium store.

03/08/2024

These sweet pups are working hard together, learning how to walk nicely on a leash with their awesome pet parents!

01/08/2024

Ever wanted a custom portrait of your sweet fur baby?? Check out the awesome deal local Bowling Green artist Courtney is offering!

Happy August! Let’s kick off this month with a super deal on pet portraits! 🐱 🐶 ❤️

DM or email me at [email protected] to claim your spot!

01/08/2024

Meet Arthur!!

This sweet pup is working on being calm around other dogs and learning how to walk nicely on a leash. We know that with his loving dad and grand pet parents, he will do amazing!!
🐶

30/07/2024

Happy Birthday to these sweet pups!!

Jack and Sophie are turning 5 today!!
And who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks? Look at this progress!!

29/07/2024

Meet Max!!

This sweet boy is learning that the world doesn't have to be such a scary place! He is working on being confident in new situations with new people and animals. We can't wait to see how far he will go!

🐶

27/07/2024

Mr Winston is working hard on listening to cues in public and leash walking! This GoodBoy is doing amazing!!

26/07/2024

This sweet boy is learning that new people don't have to be scary!! We love watching his confidence bloom. With the amazing dedication from his loving mom, we know he will do amazing!!

23/07/2024

Hello,

It is coming to our attention that more and more companies out there are claiming to use "The GoodBoy method" or to have trained with Ben (Owner of GoodBoy) in way of working with aggression.

While we always make very public our techniques on training animals, we have yet to release a schooling/training program to officially utilized our methods with our endorsement behind it. Especially in working with certain behaviors, we cannot stress enough how important a solid education/background in a feild of psychology or animal science is. Not just the safety of yourself, but that of the public as well.

Our plan is to one-day open up an extention of our program to run congruent with animal related sciences in teaching a new group of canine behaviorists. We also have a book releaseing next year for the general public as well an app (currently stuck in limbo) also for the general public.

Until that point, we are the only company using the methods developed at GoodBoy as a whole. This is not including the seventeen other amazing organizations who help us gather important data on new and developing techniques we create. But these are tested for years before being released to the general public.

Thanks,
~GoodBoy

22/07/2024

My boy turned 13 today! Wanted to go to the gym with his dad now that he can. He'll soon enough be following me around on appointments and learning now to train animals!
Couldn't be a prouder dad of my two AMAZING kiddos.

21/07/2024

🐾 It's Never Too Late to Train Your Dog! 🐾

Did you know that dogs of any age can learn new behaviors? Whether your furry friend is a puppy or a senior, training can help improve their behavior and enhance your relationship. Older dogs may even benefit from training as it keeps their minds sharp and provides them with much-needed mental stimulation.

Remember, consistency and patience are key. Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior, and always make training sessions fun and rewarding for your dog.

20/07/2024

🎒✨ **Back to School for Kids AND Pups!** 🐾📚

While the kids hit the books, why not give your dog some valuable lessons too? 🎓🐶

📢 **Special Offer: 10% OFF 6 Lessons!** 📢

Whether it’s learning new tricks, improving behavior, mastering obedience, or addressing aggression and reactivity, our expert trainers at GoodBoy are here to help your dog shine.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to give your pup the best education while the kids are busy with theirs!

Call or message us today here or at (270) 991-6910 or click the link below to purchase a gift card using promo code BACK2SCHOOL!!

19/07/2024

🌟 **GoodBoy Training Tip: Safety First!** 🌟

At GoodBoy, we understand that working with aggressive or reactive dogs can be challenging but incredibly rewarding. Ensuring the safety of everyone involved is our top priority. 🐾

🚶‍♂️ **Proper Restraint is Key:**
At the start of each lesson, it's crucial to keep your dog properly restrained. This not only protects other dogs and people but also helps your pup feel secure in a controlled environment. Whether you're at home or in a public space, maintaining control is essential.

🏡 **Home Training Safety:**
When a trainer comes into your home, it's important to have your dog properly restrained upon their arrival. An unrestrained reactive or aggressive dog can lead to serious incidents, including bites, property damage, or heightened stress for your dog and the trainer. Ensuring your dog is on a leash or in a secure area before the trainer arrives helps create a safe and productive environment for the session.

❗ **Potential Risks:**
Just because your dog hasn't bitten anyone yet doesn't mean they won't. Reactive behaviors can escalate unexpectedly, especially in new or stressful situations. Taking preventive measures is crucial for everyone's safety.

👂 **Listen to the Experts:**
Our experienced trainers provide personalized recommendations to keep everyone safe. Following these guidelines is essential for the success of the training and the well-being of your dog. These recommendations are based on extensive knowledge and experience, designed to prevent accidents and promote positive behavioral change.

💡 **The Benefits of Proper Restraint:**
- **Safety for All:** Prevents accidents and injuries.

- **Better Focus:** Helps your dog concentrate on the training session.

- **Stress Reduction:** If done correctly, it creates a calm environment, reducing anxiety for both you and your dog.

Remember, consistency and patience are the foundations of positive behavioral change. It is important for you, your dogs, our trainers, and the public to be safe! Let’s work together to create a safe and positive learning experience for your furry friend! 🐕❤️

18/07/2024

🐾 **When Should You Begin Training Your Puppy?** 🐾

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting adventure, filled with wagging tails and endless cuddles. But when is the right time to start training your furry friend?

The answer is simple: **as soon as you bring them home!** Early training is crucial for developing good habits and fostering a strong bond with your pup. Here are a few tips to get started:

1. **Start with the basics** - Focus on simple commands like sit, stay, and come.

2. **Positive reinforcement** - Use treats, praise, and affection to reward good behavior.

3. **Consistency is key** - Stick to a routine and be patient as your puppy learns.

Remember, early training sets the foundation for a happy and well-behaved dog.🐶💙

17/07/2024

These sweet pups are working hard on being the best pups! With the hard work and dedication from their loving parents, we know they will do amazing!!

🐶

16/07/2024

🌟 **Why Obedience Training Alone Doesn't Fix Aggression** 🌟

At Goodboy, we often encounter the misconception that obedience training is the ultimate solution for aggressive behavior in dogs. While obedience training is essential, it alone isn't enough to address aggression. Here’s why:

🔍 **Understanding the Root Cause**: Aggression often stems from underlying issues such as fear, anxiety, or past trauma. Without addressing these root causes, obedience commands might only mask the problem temporarily.

🧠 **Behavior Modification is Key**: Effective behavior modification programs focus on changing the dog’s emotional response to triggers. This involves desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques, which go beyond basic obedience commands.

👂 **Communication Matters**: Dogs use body language to communicate discomfort or fear. By learning to understand these signals, we can intervene before aggression escalates. Obedience training doesn’t typically cover this aspect.

🌐 **Holistic Approach**: A combination of obedience training, behavior modification, and a supportive environment is necessary for a well-rounded, lasting change. This holistic approach helps to build confidence and trust, reducing the likelihood of aggressive outbursts.

🔧 **Tailored Strategies**: Every dog is unique, and so are the triggers for their aggression. Customized behavior plans are crucial for effectively addressing each dog's specific needs.

Remember, a well-behaved dog is not just one that follows commands but one that feels safe and secure. If your furry friend is showing signs of aggression, consult with a professional who can provide a comprehensive approach to behavior modification.

🐾 **Goodboy - Your Partner in Canine Behavior** 🐾

16/07/2024

Sweet biscuit! With patience, consistency, and dedication from her owner, this girl has made amazing strides in being the best she can be and finding her forever home! Way to go, biscuit!!

🐶

15/07/2024

🌟 Early Intervention is Key for a Happy, Healthy Pup! 🌟

At GoodBoy, we believe that addressing behavioral issues early on can make a world of difference in your pup's development. From playful mouthing to more serious signs of aggression, recognizing and responding to these behaviors promptly can help ensure your furry friend grows up well-adjusted and happy.

🐾 **Puppy Mouthing**: It's normal for puppies to explore the world with their mouths, but teaching them appropriate boundaries early can prevent unwanted nipping and biting as they grow.

🐾 **Socialization**: Introducing your puppy to new people, pets, and environments in a controlled and positive manner helps them become confident and well-behaved adults.

🐾 **Excessive Barking**: Early training can help manage and reduce excessive barking, ensuring your pup communicates appropriately without disturbing the peace.

🐾 **Separation Anxiety**: Teaching your puppy to feel comfortable being alone for short periods can prevent separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behaviors and stress for both you and your dog.

🐾 **House Training**: Consistent and positive house training practices can help your pup learn where and when to go potty, reducing accidents and establishing good habits.

🐾 **Leash Pulling**: Early leash training helps prevent pulling, making walks more enjoyable for both you and your pup.

🐾 **Chewing**: Redirecting your puppy’s chewing to appropriate toys can save your furniture and belongings while satisfying their natural urge to chew.

🐾 **Resource Guarding**: Addressing resource guarding behaviors early can prevent aggression over food, toys, or other possessions, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.

At GoodBoy, our experienced team is here to support you and your pup every step of the way. Together, we can create a positive training experience that sets the foundation for a lifetime of good behavior.

🐶 Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn more about our training programs and how we can help you and your pup thrive!