Understand Your Dog's Behaviour

Loving your dog is easy... most of the time. For all those other times, we are here. This site will help you make sense of your dog's behaviour and help you know what you can do to help your furry friend behave and cope with dog-life better.

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  • All
  • Aggression
  • Anxiety and Stress in Dogs
  • Bark Control
  • Basic Obedience Training
  • Body Language and Signals
  • Breeds
  • Dog Behaviour
  • Dog Food
  • Harness and Collars
  • Holidays With Dogs
  • Instincts and Natural Canine Behaviors
  • Pack Dynamics and Social Structure
  • Potty Training Resources
  • Puppies
  • Puppy Socialization Strategies
  • Stress
  • Training
  • Training Techniques for Dogs
  • Why Dog, Why?
understanding your dog s howling

Primal Origins: Why Your Pup Howls Today

Your pup's howling is a charming throwback to their wolf ancestors, a communication practice rooted deep in primal instincts. They howl to express excitement, ward off perceived threats, or respond to those sirens that just won't quit. Certain breeds like...
dog dominance behavior indicators

5 Real Signs of Dog Dominance at Home

If your dog's behavior feels like it's mimicking a CEO at home, you might be dealing with signs of dog dominance. Look for resource guarding when you approach their beloved toys or food. Watch for assertive physical control, like standing...
control puppy hunting instincts

10 Ways To Control Your Puppy’s Hunting Instinct

Tackling your puppy's hunting instinct is essential for peace and safety. Start by understanding their predatory sequence to anticipate triggers, then use basic obedience commands like "sit" and "leave it" to manage those instincts effectively. Keep sessions fun by incorporating...
herding dogs modern intelligence

How Herding Dogs Think and Work Today

Herding dogs today are like the Einstein's of the canine world, their brains buzzing with centuries-old instincts honed by genetics, such as the EPHA5 gene, and training. They think in patterns, embodying natural behaviors like chasing and circling but require...
understanding your dog s language

What Is Your Dog’s Body Really Saying?

Your dog's body language is practically a secret code revealing what they're truly feeling. Relaxed ears, soft eyes, and a gentle wagging tail usually mean happiness, while pinned back ears, whale eyes, and a tucked tail often signal anxiety. A...
scared dogs communicate signals

Why Do Scared Dogs Send Each Other Signals?

Scared dogs send each other signals primarily to communicate their emotions, maintain safety, and prevent conflicts. A stiff posture, tucked tail, or 'whale eyes' aren't just for fashion—they're like FYIs for dogs. By expressing fear, they're saying, "Hey, I'm no...
pet anxiety at vet

Why Does My Pet Panic At Vets?

Your pet's panic at the vet often arises from overwhelming sights, smells, and sounds—like a sensory symphony gone wrong. Unfamiliar environments filled with strange pheromones and exotic noises can turn vet trips into a smorgasbord of stress. Past negative experiences...
calm dogs during thunderstorms

5 Best Ways To Calm Dogs During Thunder

Calm your dog during thunder by creating a cozy, quiet haven—skip the bathroom, though, since Fido's not a fan of plumbing surprises! Distract with engaging toys or tasty puzzle treats, and play calming music to mask the storm. Opt for...
understanding dog s fear signals

How to Read Your Dog’s Fearful Body Language

To read your dog's fearful body language, watch for signs like a stiff posture, tucked ears, or "whale eyes" showing the white of the eyes. A low, tucked tail is another telltale sign. When your dog shifts weight back or...
calm pet moving anxiety

10 Ways to Calm Your Pet’s Moving-Day Anxiety

Keep your pet calm during a move by first updating their microchip and tags, ensuring they don't get lost amidst the chaos. Familiarize them with the new space by setting up a cozy, quiet spot with their favorite toys. Consider...
dog grooming warning signs

What Are Your Dog’s Red Flags At Grooming?

When you're grooming your dog, watch for red flags signaling stress or discomfort. Does your furry friend pant excessively or tuck their tail between their legs? These are signs they're not just playing a game of "try not to scream...
calm your anxious puppy

Natural Ways to Soothe Your Anxious Puppy

To soothe your anxious puppy naturally, start by crafting a stress-free environment with cozy, quiet spaces, and gentle scents like lavender. A little classical music can work wonders too, as if your pup's a tiny Beethoven fan! Consider natural supplements...
pet home pack dynamics

Understanding Pack Hierarchy In Multiple Pet Homes

In a home with multiple pets, understanding pack hierarchy is key to maintaining peace and preventing drama-filled showdowns. Picture yourself as the unchallenged maestro of harmony, ensuring your furry ensemble knows who's in charge—you, the Alpha. Establish clear roles and...
pets exhibit pack submission

Why Do Pets Show Submission To Pack Leaders?

Pets show submission to pack leaders because it's part of their natural understanding of how social hierarchies work. They seek safety and stability, which a strong leader provides with clear boundaries and consistent rules. Use body language, like assertive posture...
new pets require guidance

Why New Rescue Pets Need Pack Leadership Now

Providing pack leadership to your new rescue pet is essential for helping them feel secure and well-adjusted in their new home. You should establish a calm and assertive presence, acting like a team captain rather than a strict boss, to...
preventing alpha male conflicts

10 Best Ways To Stop Alpha Fights Forever

To stop alpha fights forever, begin by recognizing dominance signals like direct eye contact and resource guarding. Clearly establish leadership with calm assertiveness, using consistent commands backed by positive reinforcement. Train your pets with short, engaging sessions, mixing verbal cues...
create family hierarchy structure

Establish A Natural Pack Order At Home

To establish a natural pack order at home, embrace your dog's instincts by understanding their social dynamics. Toss those outdated alpha ideas out the window and focus on trust-building through positive reinforcement. Set clear boundaries with consistent rules and respect...
leadership without dominance strategies

What Makes A Pack Leader Without Dominance?

To be a pack leader without leaning on dominance, focus on trust, respect, and communication. Forget the old "alpha" myths; modern leadership is about empathy and guidance. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior, rewarding with treats or praise. Keep...
master pack leadership today

5 Ways To Master Pack Leadership Today

To master pack leadership today, start by embracing confidence and knowledge; your calm, assertive energy sets the stage for security. Establish clear pack roles to keep harmony running smoother than a dog on a leash. Lead with trust and respect,...
food aggression management strategies

What Makes Pets Stop Fighting Over Food?

To stop pets from fighting over food, try understanding their behavior first. Hand feeding can work wonders; it builds trust and reinforces positive interaction. Set a regular feeding schedule—your pets will appreciate the routine as much as you love your...
deaf pet training signals

Essential Hand Signals To Train Deaf Pets

Training deaf pets with hand signals is not just possible, it's a wonderful way to connect! Start with the basics: to make your dog sit, extend your arm straight, palm open above their nose. Need them to stay? Show your...
gentle methods for separation

10 Gentle Ways To Ease Separation Stress

To gently ease your dog's separation stress, first grasp the triggers like changes in routine or environment. Set up a cozy safe space with familiar items and calming scents, like lavender. A predictable schedule works wonders; regular meals, walks, and...
mastering recall amid distractions

5 Steps to Perfect Recall Around Distractions

To perfect recall around distractions, start by establishing a basic recall with a consistent cue like "Come" and rewarding with high-value treats. Boost your dog's confidence by breaking challenges into small steps, reinforcing positive associations with treats and praise. Gradually...
effective house training techniques

Positive Reinforcement House Training: A Complete Guide

In positive reinforcement house training, you'll focus on using treats and praise to encourage your dog's good behavior—because who can resist a little treat or a pat, right? Start with consistent commands and shower your pup with immediate rewards to...
german shepherds exceptional training

Why German Shepherds Excel At Advanced Distance Control

German Shepherds excel at advanced distance control due to their sharp intelligence and willingness to please, making them the valedictorians of the dog world. Their ability to grasp new commands in just a few repetitions, like an enthusiastic student breezing...
pet leash pulling issue

Why Won’t Your Pet Walk Without Pulling?

Your pet pulls on the leash because of instincts to explore and a lack of proper training. Picture them seeing a walk as a thrilling expedition, each scent a mystery, each squirrel a rival. They pull because they're just being...
clicker training soothes anxious pets

Why Clicker Training Calms Nervous Rescue Pets

Clicker training calms nervous rescue pets by focusing on positive reinforcement, making training sessions not only rewarding but also fun. When you use a clicker, you give immediate feedback for good behavior, which helps build confidence and reduces anxiety. Imagine...
early socialization and learning

Why Start Puppy Training at 8 Weeks?

Starting puppy training at 8 weeks is like giving your furry friend a head start in life. This age leverages their prime learning window where they're most enthusiastic and curious, absorbing new skills and social cues like a sponge. Training...
positive reinforcement reduces aggression

Why Positive Reinforcement Transforms Aggressive Behavior Fast

You'll find that positive reinforcement transforms your dog's aggressive behavior quickly by focusing on encouragement rather than punishment. Give high-value treats or praise when your dog makes good choices, and it'll naturally drift towards these repeated behaviors. This approach builds...
recognizing pet anxiety symptoms

10 Warning Signs Your Pet Is Anxious

Is your furry friend a bit anxious? Look out for excessive barking, which often signals anxiety or fear. Indoor accidents can also hint at stress, especially when you've just rearranged the furniture, again. Destructive chewing and heavy panting are noticeable...
interpreting pet play cues

How To Read Pet Play Signals Successfully

To successfully read your pet's play signals, pay attention to key elements like body posture, tail movement, and vocal cues. Look for a play bow where your pet lowers their front half—it's an open invite for fun! Observe tail wags;...
signs of canine happiness

What Are These 6 Signs Of Canine Happiness?

Want to know if your dog's living their best life? Check for a high, wagging tail and a relaxed body posture, which signal happiness. If your furry friend leans into you, they trust you and feel secure. Playfulness, like zoomies...
ear positions indicate emotions

Why Do Ear Positions Reveal Animal Emotions?

You can learn a lot about an animal's emotions just by checking out their ear positions. Forward-facing ears mean they're interested and alert, while ears hanging out to the side can signal they're feeling a bit stressed or anxious. Relaxed,...
understanding pet submission signals

7 Signs Your Pet Is Being Submissive

Spot the signs of a submissive pet to foster a harmonious relationship! Look for your pet rolling over and exposing their belly, a classic show of submission. If they flatten their ears or tuck their tail, it's a signal of...
aggressive animal body language

7 Warning Signs of Aggressive Animal Body Language

Spotting aggressive body language in animals is important to avoid getting caught in a tight spot. Look for a stiff and tense posture, a sign that your furry friend might not be feeling too friendly. Watch out for an intense,...
pet stress communication signals

5 Calming Signals Your Pet Uses When Stressed

When your pet's stressed, they often use calming signals resembling a secret language. Notice lip and nose licking; it's their way of saying, "I'm a bit tense, help!" Yawning isn't just a sign of sleepiness—it can indicate stress, especially during...
dog playfulness indicators

What Are the Signs Your Dog Wants Play?

You'll spot your dog's playtime desire through their lively antics. Look for playful bows where their front lowers to the ground, bouncy gallops that could qualify for a dance-off, and high-pitched yips or funny growls. Their body will be loose,...
understanding dog tail language

Dog Tail Positions: Learn What They Mean

Reveal the secret language of your pup by observing their tail positions! A high, waving tail often means your dog is enthusiastic and confident; however, watch out for stiff ones, signaling caution. When that tail hangs low, your furry friend...
avoid common potty training mistakes

Top Puppy Potty Training Mistakes to Avoid

Potty training can be tough, but it's even harder when you make mistakes. One big mistake is giving your puppy too much freedom too soon. This can lead to accidents all over the house.Instead, use crate training to help your...
puppy potty training schedule

Why Follow a Potty Training Schedule for Puppies?

Cracking the Code of Potty Training for PuppiesPuppies thrive on routine, so set a schedule and stick to it! Take your furry friend outside after meals, playtime, and naps at the same times daily. This teaches them when and where...
Woman with dog at home on a winter holidays

Doggie Destinations: The Ultimate Guide to Pet-Friendly Accommodations and Activities

Choosing Pet-Friendly Accommodations: What to Look For When planning a trip with your dog, choosing the right accommodation is paramount. Look for properties that explicitly state they are pet-friendly to avoid any last-minute surprises. Ensure the hotel or rental includes...
effective puppy potty training

Top Potty Training Tips for Your Puppy

Create a routine to take your puppy outside every 30 minutes when they're awake. This helps them learn when it's time to go potty.Puppies will often sniff or circle before they go, so watch for these signs. When they do...
puppy environment introduction techniques

Smart Strategies for Puppy Environment Introductions

Getting Your Puppy Comfortable in New EnvironmentsTo help your puppy feel at ease in new places, start by linking good experiences with yummy treats and happy words. Slowly introduce them to different things they can see, hear, and touch. This...
socializing shy puppy tips

7 Tips for Socializing Your Shy Puppy

Help Your Shy Puppy Make FriendsWhen your puppy is shy, it's like they're hiding in a shell. To help them come out, start with small steps. Introduce them to one calm, friendly person at a time. Give them yummy treats...
effective puppy socialization strategies

Proven Socialization Tips for Your Puppy

Puppies need socialization to grow into confident dogs. It's like learning a new skill - the earlier you start, the better!Around 7-8 weeks after their first shots, introduce them to new things gradually. Show them different sights, sounds, and places,...
puppy training essential commands

Essential Commands for Puppy Training Success

Puppy Training Essentials for a Well-Behaved PalTeaching your pup to recognize their name, come when called, sit, stay, and walk nicely on a leash is crucial. Start training when your pup is calm, offering treats and praise as rewards. Say...
puppy obedience training techniques

Effective Puppy Training Tips for Obedience Commands

Teach Your Puppy to Listen in No Time!Want a puppy that behaves? Focus on these key commands: come when called, sit, stay, leave it, and walk by your side.Start in a quiet room and gradually add distractions. Use the same...
puppy training command tips

7 Essential Tips for Teaching Puppies Commands

Puppies learn fast! To get started, teach your pup their name by talking happy and giving treats when they look at you.Next, focus on these four important commands: come, sit, down, and stay. Make it fun by using yummy rewards...
essential obedience commands puppies

7 Best Essential Obedience Commands for Puppies

Puppies need to learn 7 basic commands to become well-behaved companions. These commands make a big difference in their behavior and your relationship with them. Learning these commands helps puppies become confident and responsive.First, your puppy needs to recognize their...
dog coughing after drinking

Why Does My Dog Cough After Drinking Water

Just as the rustling leaves of a tree might foretell an impending storm, a dog's cough following water consumption is a demand for attention, signaling potential trouble.This seemingly trivial act could be a benign consequence of guzzling water hastily, or...
dog crying in sleep

Why Does My Dog Cry in His Sleep

Are you aware that approximately 60% of canines exhibit signs of dreaming actions, resembling those of humans?You may have observed your cherished pet quivering, whimpering, or even weeping during their sleep. Although it's unsettling to hear your dog whimper in...
dog licking butt behavior

Why Does My Dog Keep Licking His Butt

Have you ever spotted your canine companion focusing excessively on his posterior? Such conduct might appear strange and could potentially indicate a deeper problem. This behavior could stem from a range of issues, including anal gland complications or allergies.It's essential...
dog cries at night

Why Is My Dog Crying at Night

Your dog's sudden nocturnal vocals have left you perplexed and sleep-deprived. This isn't the harmonious song of a canine crooner but a heart-wrenching whimper that reverberates through the stillness of the night.It has grown beyond a mere annoyance to a...
dog panting during sleep

Why Does My Dog Pant at Night

When the midnight hour hits, you might notice your canine companion panting restlessly. But what if it's not an especially sweltering evening, and your pet's panting appears much more severe than a mere cool-down mechanism?Anxiety or health concerns could very...
male dog humping behavior

Why Does My Male Dog Hump My Other Male Dog

Observing your male dog humping another male dog might baffle you, yet the motives behind this behavior are not always as they initially seem. This action isn't necessarily about sexual drive.Instead, it often has roots in dominance, playful interactions, or...
dogs seek comfort security

Why Does My Dog Sleep Under My Bed

You may find yourself puzzled, playing the role of a detective trying to solve the enigma of why your beloved dog chooses to sleep under your bed.This peculiar predilection is not rare among our tail-wagging companions. The root cause of...
developing a close relationship

Why Does My Dog Sleep in Between My Legs

Curled up within the comforting confines of your legs, your pet pooch finds a haven of tranquility. Peculiar? It might seem so, but this behavior originates from their primitive instincts and the wild lineage. Does this conduct signify more than...
dog s behavior between owner s legs

Why Does My Dog Lay Between My Legs

Has your canine companion ever nestled snugly between your legs, acting as a living, breathing heater? You may dismiss this behavior as a simple quest for warmth, or perhaps it's just a cute display of attachment.But could there be a...
promoting canine well being at home

Why Does My Dog Eat My Underwear

Have you ever been preoccupied with your laundry tasks, only to discover your canine friend chomping on your underwear? This peculiar predilection for your intimate garments can indeed be perplexing, if not downright exasperating. While it might incite a chuckle...
dogs sticking tongues out

Why Does My Dog Stick the Tip of His Tongue Out While Sleeping

Visualize this: You're serenely sprawled across your divan, casting a glance at your Bulldog, Rupert, immersed in a tranquil sleep, the end of his tongue coyly peeked out. Isn't it a fascinating sight that might have prompted you to ponder,...