Lizzy and the Good Dog People

24/08/2024

A "grumble zone" is the perfect name!

18/08/2024

A Zen Den is a safe space for your dog if they are afraid or uncomfortable around people, sounds, and other things in your home. (I’ve also created Zen Dens for my kids when traveling.)

Introduce the Zen Den when you don’t need it to smoothly. This will give you and your dog opportunities to practice under low-pressure circumstances.

* Decide what dog-proofed room or area you’d like to designate as the Zen Den.

* Include white noise, classical music, cozy blankets and pillows, and some of your dog’s toys that are saved for Zen Den time.

* Put aside excellent long-lasting chews specifically for Zen Den time.

* Start with short increments of 1-2 minutes. Build duration incrementally. Go at your dog’s pace.

* If your dog panics when the door is closed, don’t let them cry it out. Try using a baby gate first, and then introduce the door.

You've got this. ❤️

Alt text: On a floral background, a husky-type dog rests on a pile of blankets. The text reads, “Creating a zen den”.

16/08/2024

Fear is easy to come by and difficult, if not impossible, to undo in many cases. Below are several ways dogs become fearful:

👉 Genetics
👉 A stressed mother during pregnancy (affects offspring)
👉 Maternal behavior
👉 Early environment (missed socialization)
👉 Bad experiences

We can help dogs by going at their pace and never being the source of their fear. ❤️

Alt text: A black and white dog on a yellow patterned background. Speech bubble says, “Fear is easy to come by and difficult, if not impossible, to undo.”

25/07/2024

Some developmental changes may overlap with temporary teenage behavior. These include:

- Decreased overall play
- Snarkiness toward some dogs
- Being more selective with playmates
- Less tolerance of proximity to other dogs

Not all dogs experience these changes; some only experience one or a few. They can take guardians by surprise and lead to questions like “Where did my sweet puppy go?” and “Is my dog aggressive?”

I no longer seek out dorm parties like I did in my twenties, and I’m infinitely choosier with my close human friends than I was as a toddler. Speaking of proximity sensitivity, I’m never a fan of that close talker at cocktail parties. 😉Our dogs experience similar changes when socializing with other dogs!

24/07/2024

Dear Teen Dog Guardian,

I see you over there asking yourself, “Where did my adorable, agreeable puppy go?” Maybe you’re wondering if the training you did in puppy class is gone for good. You’re frustrated that your dog suddenly doesn’t listen to you, almost like they’re intentionally ignoring you. (They’re not. Promise!) You may even be thinking you chose the wrong dog. (Deep breaths. You didn’t.)

Teen dogs are a *thing*. Like humans, they go through an adolescent phase necessary for their transition to maturity, which can be a wild ride, including behaviors that humans often consider undesirable.

I’ve got you covered! Triumphant Teens class includes moral support and plenty of guidance, including training, management, enrichment, and exercise strategies to ensure the most harmonious relationship possible with your adolescent dog. This five-week live virtual class starts next Wednesday, July 31, at 7 pm. Head to thegooddogpeople.com to sign up! DM me with any questions!

Alt text: A cute black spotted dog is below the text reading “Dear Teen Dog Guardian...” in red letters on a pink and plaid background.

12/07/2024

If Separation Anxiety training isn't in your budget, this fantastic online course from our friends at Rescued By Training has you covered!

If 1:1 training isn’t in your budget, my Separation Anxiety Foundations course may be the solution you’ve been looking for! In it, you will learn:

✅ Exactly what separation anxiety is (and what it isn’t)
✅ How to perform an assessment
✅ How to read your dog’s body language
✅ What each training session looks like with sample steps
✅ How to track and measure your dog’s performance
✅ How to handle training regressions
✅ And much, much more!

You set the pace here; there’s no deadlines! And you’ll get lifetime access to the video modules and all other course assets.

Learn more about the course here: https://rescuedbytraining.com/separation-anxiety-course/

11/07/2024

I’m a big fan of capturing behavior. What is capturing?

Waiting for the behavior to happen independently, then reinforcing it.

Example 1: The dog offers a sit. A tasty treat is given.

Example 2: A dog who usually jumps to greet approaches and greets with four on the floor. Excellent treatos are delivered.

Example 3: Your dog does something you find charming, like offering a paw or retrieving toys. Each time this behavior occurs, you distribute Smoked Gouda.



Alt text: Slide 1: A cute brown dog wearing a bandana sits on a floral pattern on a red background. Her caption reads, “Minimum effort for you, maximum treatos for me.”

Slide 5: 1: A cute brown dog wearing a bandana sits on a floral pattern on a red background. Her caption reads, “So easy? Give it a try and let us know how it went!”

27/06/2024

I am looking forward to reading and sharing this book! Congratulations, Zazie! Companion Animal Psychology

Isn't this the most gorgeous cover?!! I am beyond thrilled to share it with you. I was delighted when I heard that Belle Wuthrich--the same person who designed the covers for Wag and Purr--was working on the cover for Bark!, and I think she has excelled herself with this one. Bark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog is available for pre-order now from all good bookstores and from Amazon https://amzn.to/4cAKSSt Bark! will be published on 1 October 2024 in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, and on 17th October 2024 in the UK. Let me know what you think of the cover!

22/06/2024

I adore this brilliant and lovingly written post on trigger stacking from Upward Hound.

Transitions are hard for some dogs. We've made really good progress helping Bruce be less afraid of unfamiliar men, and these days you'd never know he used to have raging separation anxiety. But we're in the middle of a move and have been packing for weeks, and it's showing in our sensitive boy.

20/06/2024

During a recent training session at a grassy local park, my client’s dog suddenly started raising and shaking her paw. She didn’t yelp (one tipoff that a bee sting occurred), and we couldn’t find a stinger, but Willow did not want to put weight on one of her front paws.

We promptly ended the session and walked back to our cars. On the way home, my client noticed that Willow was experiencing swelling. She went straight to nearby VEG (Veterinary Emergency Group) for treatment. Willow received treatment and recovered fully within 24 hours. (Thank goodness!)

If you suspect your dog was stung by a bee or other insect, watch for symptoms such as a swollen face, hives, excessive drooling, vomiting, trouble breathing, dizziness and disorientation, agitation, and collapsing.

What should you do next? Seek emergency treatment or contact your veterinarian if it’s during regular business hours.

Trust your instincts even if those around are telling you not to worry. You know your dog and their body language best!

For more detailed information and guidance, you can refer to this post from Angell Memorial Hospital in Jamaica Plain/Boston: https://www.mspca.org/angell_services/what-should-i-do-if-my-pet-has-an-allergic-reaction/.

Alt text: A bee and the text “DOGS AND BEE STINGS” on a white circle background with a plaid border.

19/06/2024

It's common to take a dog's behavior personally. We can't help ourselves sometimes, even when we know better. I've found this to be especially true for guardians of fearful dogs.

Recently, during a consultation with a long-standing client, she lamented that her fearful dog still didn't trust her after a year of dedicated, careful management, desensitization, counterconditioning, and meds. (Understandably sad and frustrating.) But their dog had made so much progress, so we talked about that.

Then I asked, "What if this *IS* what trust looks like for your dog?"

Our conversation brought a loving perspective shift. Incremental improvements in trust look different in a fearful dog than in a more confident one, and trust changes for all of us over time. If you’re working through life with a fearful dog, I hope you have the support you need. ❤️

Alt text: video clip of dogs sleeping on a bed. The text reads, "What if this is what trust looks like for your fearful dog?"

18/06/2024

The sky booms are coming! Call your vet today about situational meds so your dog doesn’t suffer through the fireworks season.

Alt text: Colorful fireworks graphics on a red background with a plaid bottom border. The text reads, “The sky booms are coming! Call your vet today about situational meds so your dog doesn’t suffer through the fireworks season.”

14/06/2024

Recall for a Meatball class starts next Wednesday, June 19, at 7 p.m. EST. I can't wait! We'll meet live for five weeks of rewards-based recall training. (We don't train dogs during class if that's a factor for you and your dog. ) Here's your sign-up link and what you can expect! bit.ly/GoodDogPeopleClasses

* A strong recall (Or the foundation of one, depending on your progress!)

* Management strategies for keeping your dog safe while getting a recall up and running

* Safety tips and instructions for using a long line and practicing on-leash recalls

* Training a collar touch and why it matters in recall

* Expert equipment recommendations

* Easy-to-follow training plans

* Customized recommendations and targeted advice
Support, encouragement, and positive reinforcement all the way

* Plenty of time for Q&A

* Office hours for extra support and coaching

*Drop-in privileges in future rounds of Recall for a Meatball

* Fun and some laughs

27/05/2024

What a great post about puppy biting from my brilliant colleague Rescued By Training. https://rescuedbytraining.com/2022/07/11/puppy-biting/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3ShRMgWJSeHwGruK3WK91EYNgM4SEE3XTtnbiwH3R-Jl1tqllWULpFUFE_aem_AVS2voxY95s6NjYxW2uLnT8mTwKvj9sOzDjlJOUJVKQgrVROV8q1fWB1lKBQ_LcaNGCdKVyhrSxyw33ZgOGmtvH5

Did you know that puppy biting and mouthing is completely normal dog behavior? Puppies explore their worlds with their mouths. Read more about what to do and what not to do.

27/05/2024

Imagine your dog EXCITED to come when you call them! I've got you covered. 🙌 My highly-rated class Recall for a Meatball starts again on Wednesday, June 19, at 7 pm EST. Registration is open! https://www.thegooddogpeople.com/classes

Recall (coming when called) is an essential life skill that can give you and your dog greater freedom while you explore and enjoy the world together!

* This supportive class fits dogs of all ages and breeds/breed mixes.
* You don't need any prior training experience!
* Classes typically meet for 45-60 minutes.
* Recordings of each session are available in our online class space if you need to miss a week or prefer a self-guided experience.
* We meet for five fun weeks via Zoom.
* We won't train during our sessions, so you don't need to bring your dog to class. (Unless you want to! Dogs are always welcome!!)

24/05/2024

“Dogs are not their reactivity. Their response to environmental stimuli shouldn’t define them. Like all others, these dogs are multifaceted, sentient beings with preferences, desires, and rich internal and external lives. So, if you’re a dog guardian reading this, know that you have a good dog who needs some help. Your dog deserves that help, and so do you!”

(An excerpt from a recent guest post for Leash and Explore.)

22/05/2024

I adore this video sharing puppies learning to feel good about new things from a distance. ❤ Practical Obedience LLC - Custom Dog Training

21/05/2024

My client roster is full of dedicated, kind, genuinely amazing guardians. They often casually mention these heart-bursting aspects of their routine with their dogs that need to be shared. (With permission, of course!)

This quote is from a session with my client Pattie, who is working with her dog Buddy (the yellow guy in the back of the golf cart) on dog-dog reactivity and distractions on walks. Buddy’s brother Mingo (in the driver’s seat) sometimes makes guest appearances during sessions.

These posts are also for me— part of a practice of sharing drawings before they are perfect or even finished. Perfection isn’t a thing. I’ve got this loving message on repeat lately! ❤️

PS: IRL Pattie and her husband drive the golf cart, but you probably figured that out. 😉

Alt text: Two doodled dogs ride in a doodled golf cart on a plaid background. The text reads, “Every night we go for a golf cart ride, and then they get back rubs.”

16/05/2024

What an excellent breakdown of treat delivery strategies! Treat Yourself Dog Training & Behaviour, well done!!

16/05/2024

My clients are always so happy to hear that a happy tone of voice is as effective at getting a dog’s attention without the potential for new or exacerbated fear.

04/05/2024

You can’t ruin a dog with comfort and kindness. ❤️

Since he doesn’t sleep on the bed with us, I take extra care assembling Finchy’s spot, which currently includes an elevated dog bed, two faux shearlings, two Kantha quilts, and a twin-size down-alternative comforter. 🙌🏽

15/04/2024

Spring is here! More people are out enjoying the good weather with their dogs. Honoring leash laws and using leashes in public places is one way to be a thoughtful community member.

Safety: Leashes prevent our dogs from running into traffic, chasing wildlife, or approaching unfamiliar dogs and people, reducing the risk of accidents and conflicts.

Concern for others: Not everyone is comfortable around dogs! Some people may have allergies, fears, or past negative experiences with dogs. Many dogs struggle with being rushed by off-leash dogs. Leashing our dog shows respect and concern for others’ comfort and safety!

Preventing incidents: Even the friendliest dogs can react unpredictably in certain situations. A leash provides a physical barrier that can prevent potential conflicts or bites.

Even in places with no leash law, I leash my crew if I see an on-leash dog ahead. There’s really no downside!

Alt text: A drawing of a small brown dog on a yellow leash, a person in brown pants, and a pink and orange shirt hiking among green hills, wildflowers, and a shining sun. The person says, “When we see a leash, we use a leash.” The dog says, “Look at my snazzy long line!”

10/04/2024

Bearing witness to the loss of a beloved dog always reminds me that right now is the perfect moment to show my crew how much I love them. To celebrate their individuality, honor their preferences and desires, and notice the beauty in our ordinary everyday moments together. Dogs’ lives are profoundly beautiful and always too short. And they mean everything to those who walk life’s path with them. ❤️

✨This one’s for Maisie, BooBoo, and Missy.✨

04/04/2024

I needed to head downstairs to my office and start work earlier than usual this morning. But my crew was energized and ready to DO something. So, I pulled out their platforms and practiced “paws up” and “off” cues. I put five minutes on the clock. (Timing tasks helps me focus and prevents me from feeling overwhelmed by the task.) Their platforms are inexpensive rubber feed bowls I bought at Tractor Supply. Your training tools don’t have to be fancy or expensive!

(Finch was unavailable due to his peanut butter jar recycling activities upstairs.)

PS: The truth is, my crew and I are training each other all day long. (For better or worse, this is always the case with our dogs!)

04/04/24

01/04/2024

✨As we journey through life with our dogs, we attach stories to them based on past experiences and preconceived notions. These stories can shape our perceptions and interactions with our dogs and sometimes hinder our relationships.

✨Humans are natural storytellers; we often create stories to make sense of our experiences. In the case of our dogs, these may stem from past traumas, like a dog’s time as a stray or societal stereotypes like the “ferocious” Chihuahua and the “dangerous” Pitbull.

✨These stories become limiting beliefs, affecting how we see and interact with our dogs. When we reinforce negative narratives, we strengthen those beliefs, prevent ourselves from thoroughly enjoying our dogs, and risk our dog missing out on joy and freedom.

✨Letting go of old stories about our dogs requires embracing change and challenging our preconceptions. It involves recognizing that our dogs have unique personalities, behaviors, and potential for change. (Dogs are not static beings!) We can cultivate a deeper understanding and connection with our dogs by shifting our focus from past experiences to present moments.

✨Instead of dwelling on past mistakes or perceived flaws, we can update the story by focusing on observable behaviors and practicing patience, empathy, and open-mindedness. What are some stories about your dog that you’re holding on to? ❤️

Alt text: a grey pit bull-type dog in a pink necklace and blue plaid coat sits on an orange and plaid background. The text reads, “Let go of old stories. Embrace change and ditch preconceived notions.”

30/03/2024

✨New Google review!✨

“Lizzy is amazing. She is gifted at helping you learn to communicate with your dog in a kind and loving way. And once you understand communication (and management), things really do become easier!

I took her Recall for A Meatball class and now Cooper sprints to me when I call him. It is wonderful. I also took Triumphant Teens class and have done 1x1 training. I continue to learn and find support in Lizzy. I hope you all discover Lizzy and her work — your dog will appreciate it!’

Your reviews help other guardians find me instead of the scary kind of trainer. On behalf of my small business and dogs everywhere, thank you for taking the time to write a review!

26/03/2024

GOOD NEWS! Recall For a Meatball starts next Wednesday, April 3, at 7 pm EST! Train your dog to come when called using proven methods! The class is FUN, accessible, effective, and efficient, using only force-free training. Perfect for learners at every skill level, even trainers take the course! Our small group meets live via Zoom for five Fridays. If you have a scheduling conflict, no problem! Each class recording is available for you to watch when you can. If you're fostering for a shelter or rescue, use FOSTERLOVE when signing up to save 20%. If you're a senior human (age 65+) or have a senior dog, use code SENIORLOVE to save 10%! Sign up here: https://www.thegooddogpeople.com/classes

26/03/2024

Resource Guarding 101

When resource guarding, dogs use body language or behavior to create space between something valuable to them and someone who might take it. Sometimes, we see these behaviors when access to a person, place, or thing that provides goodies or feelings of safety is threatened. But, granted some space, the confrontation is over.

While all resource guarding is natural, normal behavior for dogs, there are meaningful distinctions.

A distressed dog might remain tense, hypervigilant, and unable to enjoy their resource while anyone’s around. The dog’s reactions might be so scary or dangerous that others around them may also be distressed. These dogs benefit from training to help them feel safe.

Some dogs guard as communication-only. They curl their lips into a snarl, chin, or paw held over a bone, and maybe they growl and glare at an approaching dog or person.

Some dogs prance around bringing a resource to others, then growl if anyone shows interest as if saying, “Guess what I have? It’s mine, though!” Is this due to conflicting motivations or just fun? We can’t know for sure!

Whichever situation, there’s no need to cause fear in our dogs when it comes to resource guarding!

Resource guarding is common and normal. Your dog isn’t broken!

19/03/2024

FORGIVE YOURSELF. You were doing your best with the information you had.

✨Learning is a journey: Nobody starts out knowing everything. The best caregivers stay open and continue to learn and improve.

✨Intent matters: If your actions are rooted in love and care, unintended mistakes deserve a pass!

✨No one is perfect: Perfection isn’t a thing. You can let that go.

✨Prioritize growth: Use past missteps as opportunities to grow and become a better dog guardian in the future.

✨Seek guidance: Reach out to a credentialed force-free professional for guidance and support when needed.

✨Focus on the present: Rather than dwelling on past mistakes, focus on the present moment and how to provide the best care for your dog moving forward.

✨Self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would extend to others.

✨Every dog is unique: Recognize that what works for one dog may not work for another. Allow room for understanding and adaptation.

A brown dog in a floral sweater stands on a plaid stool in front of an orange and pink plaid background. The text reads: FORGIVE YOURSELF. You were doing your best with the information you had.