Canine Ethical Associates

20/11/2024

🌟 Exciting News! Our Brand New Service is Here!

We’re thrilled to introduce our CDD Bespoke Behaviour Guides, now available! From just £35!!

These guides are a more affordable way to help your dog’s behaviour or get a taster of how to apply the CDD method in your home.

Each guide is tailored specifically to your dog and their unique needs. Using the CDD method, we’ll provide you with actionable steps to help your dog in the most ethical, effective, and compassionate way possible.

👉 What’s Included?

• A detailed written guide, created just for your dog.

• The option to include a personalised 30-minute video for deeper insights.

• Advice you can put into action right away, without the need for appointments.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a cost-effective way to address your dog’s behaviour, these guides are designed to support you every step of the way.

📅 Available to all, no matter where in the world you are!

Ready to take the first step? Learn more and get started here (Our guides are at the bottom of the website) https://canine-dialogue-dynamics.com/index.php/online-programmes/

Let’s help your dog thrive! 🐾💙

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15/11/2024

📸 Meet Fin – an absolutely adorable collie who’s just starting his CDD journey! 🐾💛

Today was our very first session, and we chose a quiet spot to begin expanding on his dialogue understanding. It’s all about creating a meaningful, two-way communication between Fin and his humans, allowing him to express himself and make safe, confident choices.

Fin is working through some reactivity, and together, we’ll be helping him learn how to manage his emotions and make calm, thoughtful decisions when faced with his triggers.

This photo is such a beautiful moment – Fin and his dad engaged together, calmly observing the world around them. I truly love how it captures their connection and mutual focus. 😍✨

Here’s to the start of an exciting journey for Fin and his family! 🐶💫

14/11/2024

🌟 Introducing: “Embracing a New Life for Rescue Dogs” - Free CDD Mini Course! 🌟

Welcoming a rescue dog into your life is such a rewarding journey, filled with opportunities for growth, trust, and connection. But it can also come with unique challenges and a need for extra patience and understanding. That’s why I’m thrilled to offer a special, free mini-course designed just for rescue dog parents!

Our “Embracing a New Life for Rescue Dogs” mini-course is the perfect introduction to the Canine Dialogue Dynamics (CDD) method – a gentle, dog-centric approach that fosters trust, communication, and emotional well-being. This mini-course will give you a taste of the full CDD experience, helping you discover a fresh, compassionate way to support your new companion.

In this free course, you’ll learn to:

• Build a meaningful connection with your rescue dog
• Support their unique needs as they settle into their new environment
• Address early challenges in a way that respects their past experiences
• Guide them toward feeling safe, secure, and ready for their new life

This course is ideal for anyone who wants to explore the CDD approach and see first-hand how it can transform your relationship with your dog. It’s packed with valuable insights and practical tools to get you started on a positive path together – completely free of charge!

Ready to start embracing a new life together? Sign up now for “Embracing a New Life for Rescue Dogs,” and take the first steps toward a trusting, fulfilling journey with your rescue dog. 🐾💛

Our Courses Welcome to the World of Canine Dialogue Dynamics (CDD) Courses!Embark on a ground-breaking journey of discovery and connection with your beloved dog. Through our curated courses, we reveal the revolutionary Canine Dialogue Dynamics method - a transformative approach that goes beyond conv...

12/11/2024

Yes, I know that using harsh methods on dogs can work. I know it can be fast, convenient, and may even give the illusion of an obedient, “well-behaved” companion. I know that it’s easy to be seduced by the results—a dog who sits, stays, heels, never pulls, never questions, always obeys. But I also know the cost. I know that it hurts the very soul of the being we are entrusted with. It hurts them in ways we don’t always see on the outside but that linger, settle, and hide within. It’s a harm that settles into their core, silencing their joy, crushing their spirit, instilling a quiet fear they carry with them.

Yes, your dog might be the most impressive one in the neighborhood, the one who wins prizes, impresses others, draws admiration. But I would rather have the “worst-behaved” dog than one whose spirit I had to break to make them conform. I would rather have a dog who is a little wild, a little cheeky, a little “imperfect”—because that is a dog who is free, a dog who has opinions, desires, and confidence. I would rather have my dog as my best friend than a robotic creature at my command. And here’s the beauty: I don’t even have to make those compromises. I don’t have to instill fear, pain, or suppression to have a dog who listens, learns, and grows.

Our dogs can learn, understand, comprehend, and adjust without needing to fear us. They can be what some may call “well-behaved” through kind, compassionate methods that respect who they are as individuals. It’s a beautiful thing to have a dog who does not respond out of fear, who is not weighed down by unnecessary control or suppressed by my actions but is free, happy, content, and autonomous.

This is what it means to live with a dog who chooses to be by your side, to trust, to engage, and to be a true companion. Let’s stop breaking their spirit in the name of control. Instead, let’s celebrate their beautiful, quirky, free-spirited selves. Because at the end of the day, a joyful, loved dog is the truest prize of all.

12/11/2024

Puppy Sleep - Is it really 18-20 hours a day? Perhaps not!

Are you struggling to get your puppy to sleep the recommended 18-20 hours a day?

I am not surprised! But don't worry, there is nothing wrong with your puppy when they don't sleep this much. Simply put, this is a guideline that has no scientific backing to it. There is no evidence that puppies need this amount of sleep. Thinking about it, I am not sure I know of anyone who has a puppy that is only active and awake for around 4 hours over a 24-hour period.

Puppies are full of energy. They are learning, are full of curiosity, and want to play, explore, and discover. Don't get me wrong, sleep is important, and if a puppy doesn't get enough sleep this can affect their ability to think clearly. When they get overtired, they can become exasperated, start manically biting, go into a frenzy, become over aroused, be unable to calm down, focus, or listen, and be grumpy (we have all been there)!

It is important to bring the myth that puppies need to sleep 18-20 hours a day to light though, as owners may feel they need to impose sleep on their puppies when they are not asleep for this length of time. This is understandable, as people are told that if their puppy doesn't get this amount of sleep their health and welfare is compromised. Imposing sleep is also encouraged for lots of other activities and emotional states that are normal for puppies, such as over arousal, over excitement, whining, puppy biting, and anything else that could possibly be associated with tiredness. The problem here is that this overlooks the finding the actual reason for what the puppy is doing, as we think everything is to do with tiredness because we have been led to believe that they should be asleep most of the time.

Tiredness is sometimes the reason, but certainly not always. Could your puppy be bored? Experiencing growing pains? Having teething pains? Could they be hungry? Are they just wanting to play? Are they trying to communicate? Are they just excited? Do they need attention? Do they not know what to do with themselves? None of these reasons can be answered by imposing sleep, which will only create issues of misunderstanding and building frustration when you don't accurately interpret each other's needs. When we impose sleep, our puppy may eventually go to sleep, but that doesn't necessarily mean they were tired. They will sometimes give up and just go to sleep as there are no other options.

The small amount of research there is on canine sleep does show some insights. Kinsman et al. (2020) compared the sleep of 16-week-old puppies to 12-month-old dogs. They found that the average time spent asleep in a 24-hour period was 11.2 hours for the 16-week-old puppies, and 10.8 hours for 12-month-old dogs. The 16-week-old puppies spent more time asleep during the day, and 12-month-old dogs spent more time asleep during the night. They also found that of the puppies and dogs that had access to people during the night, 86.7% of the puppies and 86.8% of the dogs chose to stay around those people.

Another study (Bodizs et al. 2020) shows that the sleeping location along with pre sleep experiences made a material difference to the quality of the sleep. Active days with positive experiences and a safe sleeping location (indoors compared to outdoors) led to better sleep compared to negative experiences, and had a beneficial impact on memory, social skills, behaviour, and learning.

There is limited research on canine sleep, and so there is not enough data to provide any guidelines on how much sleep a puppy or an adult dog naturally needs. So, what is the solution? Get to know your puppy, their individual needs, what their body language means, what their verbal communication means, what they are trying to tell you. You will soon recognise when they are tired and need your help to settle when they are very young. When they are a little bit older, they need less guidance as they become able to regulate themselves easier and settle themselves to sleep when they need to. Each puppy is an individual and will require an individual amount of sleep depending on what they have been doing, their age, their brain development, their diet, their lifestyle and their breed. Try not to focus on the number of hours they do or don't sleep, instead focus on whether they are tired and need a rest, along with what they are telling you about how they feel.

Kinsman, R., Owczarczak-Garstecka, S., Casey, R., Knowles, T., Tasker, S., Woodward, J., Da Costa, R., Murray, J. (2020). Sleep Duration and Behaviours: A Descriptive Analysis of a Cohort of Dogs up to 12 Months of Age
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7401528/

Bódizs, R., Kis, A., Gácsi. M., Topál, J. (2020). Sleep in the dog: comparative, behavioral and translational relevance
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352154619301378

09/11/2024

I’m going to say it… brace yourselves! 🎄

CHRISTMAS! My absolute favourite time of the year! And speaking of Christmas presents… let’s talk about BOOKS! 📚

Books are back in style! With the Christmas season coming up, they’re one of the most timeless, thoughtful gifts you can give. And if you know a dog lover—or maybe you’re one yourself—I have two books that would make the perfect holiday gift!

🐾 “Barking Up a New Tree – Rethinking Dog Training”

This book dives deep into what makes our dogs tick, and it’s all about creating a strong, compassionate connection with them. It’s for anyone looking to step away from conventional dog training and into a more holistic, dog-centred approach. Packed with insights, real-life stories, and guidance, this is the ideal read for dog parents who want to go beyond “obedience” and build a lasting relationship based on trust, understanding, and communication.

🐾 “Redefining Reactivity Using the CDD Method”

Does your dog struggle with reactivity? Or do you know someone feeling a bit lost trying to help their reactive dog? This book introduces the CDD method, a completely fresh way to understand and support dogs dealing with reactivity. It’s a practical, uplifting guide that helps dog parents turn reactive situations into teachable moments, creating calmer, happier dogs—and humans!

Both books are jam-packed with tips, support, and ideas to help dog lovers connect with their furry friends on a whole new level. So, if you’re thinking of gifts for the dog parent in your life (or for yourself!), these books might just be the perfect match.

🎁 Available on Amazon or directly through me. Give the gift of knowledge, compassion, and joy this Christmas—perfectly wrapped in a book!

Redefining Reactivity - https://bookgoodies.com/a/B0D39DCPBN

Barking up a new tree - https://mybook.to/9vsgca0

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Bethany Bell

Reactivity Redefined through Canine Dialogue Dynamics

The Canine Dialogue Dynamics Method By Canine Ethical Associates

https://canine-dialogue-dynamics.com/

08/11/2024

It’s Never Too Late to Change Direction 🌱

Sometimes we dedicate ourselves wholeheartedly to a certain way of training or teaching, only to realise that it might not be the best fit. Maybe it’s not working, or maybe it doesn’t sit right with us ethically. Here’s the thing—it’s never, ever too late to turn around, to change your mind, or to take a new path.

It’s okay to be wrong. Every one of us has been there. Being wrong isn’t something to be ashamed of; it’s a stepping stone that leads us to growth. Admitting a mistake is not a weakness; it’s a strength, a brave act of honesty that paves the way for true learning. Mistakes are precisely what have led me to where I am today.

And sometimes, even with the best intentions, an ethical method might not be inherently wrong, but it might not be right for your dog. Choosing a different ethical method doesn’t mean you’re admitting failure or wrong-doing; it means you’re prioritising what’s best for your dog. Recognising when something isn’t working and having the courage to try something new—provided it’s ethical—is a powerful choice.

And this isn’t just a message for dog parents; it’s one for dog professionals, too! I used to be a force-free trainer who followed every rule, absorbed every bit of information I was given without question. Until, one day, I realised that some of those methods didn’t align with what my dogs or some of my clients’ dogs truly needed. Was I wrong? No, not necessarily. The methods weren’t “wrong,” but they weren’t right for me, my dogs, or the unique dogs I was working with. Once I recognised this, I broke away from the conventional path and began creating something new, fresh, and perfectly suited for the journey I wanted to take with my dogs and clients.

So whether you’re a dog parent, a dog professional, or both—know that it’s never too late to change direction. Trust in yourself, be kind to yourself, and know that growth comes from embracing new perspectives.

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Bethany Bell

Reactivity Redefined through Canine Dialogue Dynamics

The Canine Dialogue Dynamics Method By Canine Ethical Associates

https://canine-dialogue-dynamics.com/

06/11/2024

📚 Why Choose "Redefining Reactivity" Using the CDD Method? 📚

With so many books on reactivity out there, why pick this one?

Because it doesn’t rehash the same old techniques or put a new label on familiar methods. Redefining Reactivity introduces the Canine Dialogue Dynamics (CDD) method, a genuinely different approach that breaks away from the conventional. If you’ve tried countless “solutions” without lasting success, it’s time for something truly fresh.

This book dives deep into practical, easy-to-apply strategies that help you transform your dog’s reactivity from the inside out. Detailed, informative, and designed with real-world application in mind, Redefining Reactivity will empower you with skills and insights you won’t find elsewhere. Time to turn the page on reactivity – for good.

The Canine Dialogue Dynamics (CDD) method is an approach based on building trust, understanding, and genuine communication between you and your dog, especially for addressing reactivity. Unlike conventional approaches that might rely on control tactics, commands, or physical tools, CDD respects your dog’s emotions and needs, creating a foundation for natural behavioural shifts through mutual understanding rather than imposed discipline or cued responses.

With CDD, reactivity is addressed without force, fear, intimidation, coercion, or conventional training. Instead, the method focuses on helping you learn to interpret and respond to your dog’s signals, create positive experiences, and shift their perception of triggers in a safe, gentle, and empowering way. Through this method, dogs gain confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of security, enabling them to navigate previously reactive situations calmly.

Order your copy here! Or contact me directly for a signed copy. https://bookgoodies.com/a/B0D39DCPBN

06/11/2024

🌟 A Big Shoutout to the Unsung Heroes of Dog Welfare 🌟

One thing that deserves more recognition is the incredibly selfless decision of those who adore dogs but choose not to bring one into their lives because they know they aren’t in the right position to meet a dog’s needs. Maybe they’re waiting for a time when they can provide everything a dog deserves, or perhaps, for various reasons, they know that having a dog might never be the best fit.

It’s easy to fall in love with the idea of having a dog, but it takes real strength to recognise when it’s not possible to give them the time, enrichment, and care they deserve. For those with demanding careers, family responsibilities, or health constraints, holding off on that dream shows an admirable level of compassion and thoughtfulness for an animal’s wellbeing.

To everyone out there who has made this tough but selfless choice – this is a little shoutout for you. It’s no small thing to put an animal’s welfare above our own desires, and that decision is truly worthy of respect.

06/11/2024

Let’s Talk About Comforting Dogs When They’re Anxious in more detail 🐾

When our dogs feel anxious, the way we respond can make a significant difference. There’s a delicate line between comforting and coddling, and understanding the difference is key to helping our dogs feel genuinely supported rather than inadvertently adding to their stress.

Coddling looks like being over-the-top or responding to their emotions in a way that might seem panicked or overly sympathetic. It’s the kind of response that can unintentionally intensify their anxiety, making them feel like there’s indeed something to fear. This is partly because we are acting a bit strange when we do this, and the tone of our voice influences emotions and provides more clarity on the situation.

Comforting, on the other hand, means staying calm, grounded, and reassuring. It’s about being present without overreacting, giving them the space to feel seen and heard without amplifying their worry.

When we respond to their anxiety with stability, it tells them they’re safe, that they’re okay, and that we’re there for them. By providing that steady reassurance, we can help our dogs feel less panicked and more capable of handling the situation.

But comfort doesn’t mean ignoring our dogs in distress either—doing so can make them feel isolated and unheard, which can increase their anxiety. Instead, acknowledge what they’re feeling, talk them through what’s happening calmly, and guide them to move on to something positive. This allows them to feel understood without becoming over-dependent on us in those moments.

Every dog is unique, and so is every anxious moment. Some dogs may seek physical comfort and want a touch, a pat, or a presence right by their side. Others may simply need emotional support from a slight distance, feeling reassured by our calm voice rather than direct touch. What they need can depend on the situation, their current mood, and their emotional state.

Coddling vs. Comforting an Anxious Dog: Understanding the Difference

Here’s a breakdown of what coddling might look like versus comforting and how each approach affects their emotions.

Coddling:

“Oh my goodness, are you ok?? It’s ok, I’ve got you, it’s ok baby!” Now this sentence alone doesn't directly mean coddling.

In a coddling response, our voice often rises in pitch and quickens, mirroring a slightly panicked energy. Our body language can also convey worry or distress, which dogs easily pick up on. This reaction may unintentionally confirm their fear, making them feel there’s something to be afraid of or that they need constant reassurance to be safe. Coddling can lead to over-dependency, as dogs learn to seek validation of their anxiety rather than working through it with our guidance.

Comforting:

“Don’t worry, it’s just (name the noise, sight, or situation), it will be over soon, I’ve got you—you’re safe. Shall we do something else?”

Comforting is calm, steady, and grounded. It involves acknowledging the dog’s feelings and reassuring them without amplifying their anxiety. The tone of voice here is softer, gentler, and more grounded, spoken at a steady pace. This approach helps your dog feel seen and safe without adding to their worry. You’re not dismissing their emotions, but instead providing a stable presence that they can rely on.

After offering reassurance, it’s beneficial to gently guide them toward a positive activity to help shift their focus and lift their mood. Perhaps that’s a fun activity, a stretch in the garden, or even taking a different route on a walk. This gradual redirection helps them feel more in control, knowing you’re there to support them without “hovering” or amplifying their anxiety.

Body Language and Tone:

When comforting, your body language and tone will depend on your dog’s response:

• If your dog seems to need a cuddle, offer gentle physical touch but keep it brief and calm. The idea is to give comfort without overwhelming.

• If they seem comforted by space, simply stay near, use a calm tone, and offer an activity to refocus them.

In comforting, your tone should be steady and calm, rather than rapid or high-pitched. This helps communicate that the situation is manageable and reinforces their trust in you to lead them through it.

The Goal: Acknowledge, Reassure, and Redirect
By acknowledging their feelings, offering reassurance, and moving on to something more enjoyable, you’re helping your dog feel heard while also giving them the tools to move beyond the moment of anxiety. Comforting provides stability, confidence, and a sense of security that helps dogs learn to self-regulate and manage their emotions more effectively.

The bottom line? Comforting isn’t about coddling —it’s about giving them a steady, reassuring presence, a quiet strength they can lean on. So next time your dog shows signs of anxiety, remember to stay grounded, offer calm reassurance, and let them know they’re not alone. 🐶💛

06/11/2024

Looking for a New Approach to Dog Training and Behaviour Support? 🐾

If you’re based in Surrey, Hampshire, West Berkshire, or nearby areas, and looking for a holistic, compassionate, and natural way to help your dog thrive, I’d love to introduce you to the Canine Dialogue Dynamics (CDD) method. This isn’t conventional training—it’s a gentle and ethical way to teach your dog that aligns with their unique needs, behaviours, and emotions.

With in-person programmes designed for every life stage—puppies, adolescents, adults, and even older dogs—we’re offering a new approach that doesn’t rely on treats or corrections. Instead, it’s about building understanding, trust, and communication. Through the CDD method, your dog learns to make safe choices, communicate their needs, and build resilience without needing constant cues or commands.

Our Canine Life Journey Programme offers customised guidance for your dog’s growth and development, focusing on emotional balance and essential life skills. And for those facing behavioural challenges, our Behavioural Transformation Programmes provide an effective, respectful alternative to traditional methods, helping dogs become confident and capable in any situation.

I’m excited to bring this unique method to our community, supporting dog guardians who want to move beyond conventional training and build a truly meaningful relationship with their dogs. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to tackle specific challenges, I’d be honoured to guide you and your dog on this journey.

If this sounds like the right fit, reach out to learn more or book a session. Let’s create a better, more compassionate way forward together! 🌱🐕

https://canine-dialogue-dynamics.com/

05/11/2024

Let’s Talk About Bad Advice: Why Your Dog Needs Your Comfort and Attention 🐾

Unfortunately, I’ve been seeing some advice circulating in dog groups that suggests we should distance ourselves from our dogs in certain ways: don’t talk to your dog too much, don’t fuss them too often, don’t let them follow you around, don’t let them sit next to you, and don’t comfort them when they’re anxious. All of this, apparently, is to avoid “anthropomorphising.”

Let’s take a step back and talk about why this advice is so misguided.

Dogs Thrive on Communication

Talking to your dog isn’t just harmless—it’s incredibly beneficial! Dogs are social creatures who understand more than we often give them credit for. Verbal communication can help dogs feel grounded, connected, and secure. When we narrate, chat, or gently guide them with our words, it becomes part of a shared language that helps them understand what’s happening in their world.

Fussing Isn’t a Crime—It’s Connection

When our dogs seek out a pat or a cuddle, it’s natural to respond! Fussing over your dog, showing affection, and sharing these moments is part of a healthy, loving relationship. Dogs are emotional beings; they feel joy, curiosity, and contentment. Responding to their need for closeness reinforces your bond and helps them feel secure.

Comfort in Times of Anxiety

One of the most damaging pieces of advice out there is to ignore your dog when they’re anxious. In moments of distress, dogs benefit enormously from reassurance. Comforting them when they’re nervous or frightened doesn’t “reinforce” fear—it simply helps them feel safe and supported. Ignoring a dog’s anxiety can create unnecessary emotional stress, leading them to feel isolated and unsupported. Comforting them, on the other hand, can build resilience over time and encourage a calm, secure mindset.

Is Anthropomorphising Really a Problem?

The fear of anthropomorphising—assigning human characteristics to dogs—often leads to this kind of hands-off advice. But the truth is, dogs share many of the same emotions as we do. They have similar brain structures that process emotions, allowing them to feel joy, fear, and love. While there are, of course, some limitations, empathising with our dogs doesn’t create problems; it builds connection and understanding. Treating our dogs with kindness, empathy, and respect for their emotions aligns more with who they are than trying to keep them at arm’s length.

The Bottom Line

Respecting your dog’s emotional needs—through communication, affection, and comfort—won’t make them “clingy” or “demanding.” It’s a foundation for a healthy, trust-based relationship. Our dogs depend on us, not just for food or exercise, but for emotional connection and reassurance. Let’s honour that bond by listening to their needs and being there for them, just as they are always there for us.

So, go ahead and talk to your dog, give them a fuss, and offer comfort when they need it. They deserve to feel valued, understood, and loved. 🐾💛

03/11/2024

Let's see your dogs having work autumnal fun! ❤️

01/11/2024

What Does It Mean to Be a “Puppy Parent” or “Dog Parent”? 🐾

Why do we choose “parent” over “owner”? Because there’s a powerful difference. When we talk about being a dog parent, it’s about nurturing, understanding, and truly connecting with our dogs as family members rather than possessions. It’s about shifting from control to care, from obedience to relationship.

Being a puppy parent or dog parent means seeing our dogs as sentient beings with emotions, preferences, and unique personalities. It means valuing their individual needs, guiding them with empathy, and making decisions based on their well-being—not just our convenience.

This distinction is important because it shapes our entire approach. At Canine Dialogue Dynamics, we promote a bond built on trust, respect, and two-way communication. When we think of ourselves as parents rather than owners, we create an environment where our dogs can feel safe, confident, and understood.

So, ask yourself: Do you want to be more than a dog owner? Are you ready to foster a deeper connection with your dog? Join us on this journey and discover the impact of truly becoming a dog parent. 🌟

The Canine Dialogue Dynamics Method By Canine Ethical Associates

01/11/2024

At Canine Dialogue Dynamics, we believe in striving for the highest standards in dog welfare and teaching. We don’t settle, turn a blind eye, or shift our views to please others. Because dogs matter, their lives matter, and they deserve more than the status quo.

Dogs often don’t receive the same freedoms, choices, or ethical consideration as other animals. They’re expected to fit neatly into our lives, to be endlessly obedient, adaptable, and accepting. But what if we could do more? What if we focused on their welfare, their choices, and their individual needs just as much as we do for other beloved animals?

At Canine Dialogue Dynamics, we’re here to challenge and elevate the standards. The CDD method is about teaching in a way that respects each dog’s unique mind and emotional landscape. We believe in giving dogs real choices, honouring their needs, and nurturing their independence. We know that by choosing a compassionate, dog-centric approach, we can create a deeper bond, foster trust, and improve their quality of life.

We are committed to making a difference and raising the bar for canine welfare. Together, we can build a world where dogs are respected, understood, and given the freedom to be their truest selves. 🐾