Pawsitive Pup Training

07/09/2025

Learn which ones are dog-safe

06/30/2025

A Kyoto University study reveals that dogs can assess human competence, with female dogs showing the strongest ability. Researchers observed dogs watching two people attempt to open treat containers—one successful and one unsuccessful. The dogs paid more attention to the competent individual, particularly when food was involved, suggesting they can judge skill levels.

Lynette A. Hart, an anthrozoology professor, noted that this aligns with dogs’ natural attentiveness to humans. Female dogs’ heightened trainability and focus may contribute to their stronger judgment, while breed differences also matter, with German Shepherds excelling in problem-solving tasks.

06/23/2025

Growling is communication. Always just communication. How else are our dogs going to ask for the space they need if we punish them for growling? Take away the growl and they have no choice but to go straight to a bite.

06/22/2025

06/19/2025

July 4th is right around the corner .....

06/19/2025

06/19/2025

Dealing with the Moment

When our dogs experience an upsetting encounter—such as being frightened by an off lead dog running up to them while they are on lead —the most important thing we can do is help them feel safe. In that moment, your priority should be to promptly remove your dog from the situation and try to remain calm. Although it may be tempting to address the incident with the other dog’s owner or explain how it affected your dog, doing so can inadvertently extend your dog’s exposure to stress.

Raising your voice or becoming emotionally reactive increases your own levels of stress. Your elevated emotional state can heighten your dog’s distress and reinforce the perception of danger. Likewise, remaining in the vicinity of the other dog, even briefly, continues to expose your dog to the perceived threat and can intensify their anxiety.

Once you have removed your dog from the situation, focus on helping them reset. Move to a calm, familiar environment where your dog can decompress. Speak softly, avoid sudden movements. Allow your dog time and space to regulate their emotions. For more sensitive dogs, a predictable routine and low-stimulation environment can further support recovery.

By responding with composure and prioritising emotional safety, you not only help your dog feel secure in the moment—you also contribute to building their resilience over time.

06/15/2025

06/15/2025

As the summer season brings more outdoor events, markets, and dog-friendly activities, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on what these experiences are like from your dog’s perspective.

Crowds—even relatively small ones—can easily overwhelm dogs, including those who appear to be calm. During this time of year, it’s common to see dogs in towns and at events exhibiting signs of stress that often go unnoticed by their owners. While people may enjoy the excitement, and sensory richness of public gatherings, these same factors can be stressful and disorienting for dogs. Hard pavements, loud noises, unfamiliar smells, lots of people all around them and constant movement offer little in the way of comfort or security.

It’s also important to note that not all discomfort is dramatic. Many dogs won’t bark, lunge, or growl, but instead will show subtle signs of distress—such as turning their heads away, panting excessively, lowering their body posture, or tucking their tails. These behaviours are often missed but they’re clear indicators that the dog is not at ease.

With this in mind, we should thoughtfully assess whether our dog genuinely enjoys outings to crowded places or events involving large groups of people or other dogs. Sometimes, the kindest choice we can make is to let them stay at home where they feel secure and relaxed.

Prioritising your dog’s emotional and physical well-being is one of the most valuable forms of care you can offer—this summer, and always.

06/14/2025

When was the last time you got stuck in the resistance and forgot to SEE THE DOG?

06/14/2025