Purdy
Imagine your ordinarily sweet, affectionate pup suddenly growling at you over a food bowl, lunging at a stranger, or even biting a family member. It’s alarming, confusing, unacceptable, and heartbreaking. But before you panic, know this: Aggression doesn’t come out of nowhere. Sudden canine aggressionopens in a new tab is almost always a symptom of … Read more
As winter’s chill sets in, you might be wondering which dog breeds are best suited for cold weather. Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply live in a region with harsh winters, choosing a canine companion that thrives in low temperatures can make a big difference. The best winter dog breeds typically have thick … Read more
Clara on a walk in September 2021 This is about an incident in October 2021 that I wrote about at the time but never published here. I’ve been walking Clara every day in my neighborhood now since April [2021]. Now, recall that as a feral puppy she was introduced to the presence of humans other … Read more
At some point in your dog’s life — probably sooner than later — you’ll notice them chewing on a stick. Chewing on non-food items is fairly normal, instinctive behavior, especially for puppies (cue a lament for your favorite pair of Birkenstocks). It keeps dogs busy and helps them expend energy. More specifically, dogs may chew … Read more
Dog mats provide a cozy spot for your furry friend to relax and unwind. These versatile accessories offer comfort and protection for your pet while also safeguarding your floors and furniture. From simple cushions to innovative designs, dog mats come in various styles to suit different needs and preferences. Clever dog mat ideas take functionality … Read more
This post is about the tricky concept of the combination of negative and positive reinforcement. I’ve always wondered about behaviors having more than one consequence. I’ve recently learned more about the possibility, and I’ve found a good example of it with Lewis. So-called “synthesized reinforcement” occurs when more than one reinforcer is a consequence of … Read more
Cats, they’re just like us. They love naps…and they get acne. If your cat’s chin looks like the “before” picture in a late-night Proactiv commercial, read on for how you can treat the breakout before Dr. Pimple Popper surfaces on Nat Geo one day. What is cat acne? You don’t hear much about skin disordersopens … Read more
Finding ideas for a cozy under the stairs dog nook space for your furry friend can be a challenge, especially in homes with limited square footage. Fortunately, the area under your stairs offers a unique opportunity to craft a comfortable retreat for your canine companion. Many homeowners are discovering the potential of this often-overlooked nook. … Read more
It did not turn out well to work on duration for “front paws on a platform” during Lewis’ breakfast period. Most of us know the harm that tools such as shock and prong collars can cause. But I worry that our focus on tools causes less dramatic aversive methods to go under the radar. We … Read more
People with dogs know the horror of pups getting their paws — and teeth — on things they really shouldn’t. It’s dangerous, it’s costly, and it’s kind of a puppy’s favorite thing to do. Luna, a seven-month old Bernese Mountain Dog, may take home the prize for the most curious (and hungry) pup of all … Read more