Mixed Messages: Getting Clear on Your Body Language when Training for Sport
She peered down at her dog lovingly, shoulders tilted slightly so she could grab his eyes with hers and hold them. “Au pied,” she called in a strong tone that completely...
Working Dogs
More Harm than Good: 3 Reasons Why I Never Socialize my Puppies
She stood atop of the massive metal bleachers, her puppy triumphantly standing on one of the rows, as she called down to me. “Aren’t you going to socialize your puppy?” she...
There’s No GPS in Dog Training – Creating a Plan to Get Results
I stared blankly at the screen. Rewind, split video, delete, play. Wash, rinse, repeat. I was editing a video project, and for the umpteenth time, I let the lecture I was...
1+1=3 : Building Your Team for Maximum Effect
It was hot. A sweltering 90 degrees in the heat of the day, and the fact that the air remained motionless, the breeze taking the afternoon off, made standing in the direct...
An Interview with Former Navy SEAL Eric Davis
Many of you have asked me about the work that I do with the former Navy SEALs over at Sealed Mindset Leaders. If you haven’t read along on the blog, very simply put, we...
Changing the Game: Combatting Conflict on the “Out”
The puppy tugged hard, trying with all of his might to rip the toy from his owner’s hands. He growled and he thrashed, trying everything he knew in a frantic attempt to claim...
Precision Obedience: Battling Reinforcement History to Correct the Heel
“Au pied”, I quietly commanded my dog. It is the French version of the heel command, and with my words, my dog snapped into position. The onlookers formed a semicircle around...
Pride, Inexperience, and Prong Collars – When Bad Training Becomes Dangerous
“Take the dog off the lead!” he shouted from the sidelines of the field, exasperated with my seeming inexperience. “She’s not ready,” I retorted as my dog stared at the decoy,...
Sharing is Caring: Are You Making Your Dog Selfish?
The puppy barreled towards me. As he caught a glimpse of the toy in my hand, he was barely able to keep his own massive paws from tripping him as he threatened to plow into my...