Greta Kaplan, CPDT One of the most difficult practical aspects of working with reactive or aggressive dogs is creating practice scenarios where the client’s dog can be exposed to his triggers in a controlled fashion. Owners often assume we can meet at the dog park, because that is where the dog is having the problem…. [Read More]
Book Review: “Good Dog 101”
Christine Hibbard, CTC, CPDT I just finished a book written by one our native Seattle daughters, Cristine Dahl, titled “Good Dog 101”. I should disclose at the beginning of this review that Cristine was my original mentor in dog training and canine behavior. OK, now you know that I’m a biased reviewer, and an unashamed… [Read More]
Your veterinarian’s role in behavior modification
Greta Kaplan, CPDT Ultimately, behavior starts in the brain, and the body must carry it out. The dividing line between “mental” and “physical” problems has become more and more blurred as scientists illuminate the functioning of brain cells and chemicals. When you bring us your dog who is having a problem, sometimes our first instruction… [Read More]
Welcome to Behind the Behavior
Christine Hibbard, CTC, CPDT Behind the Behavior: Information on ethology, animal behavior, and learning theory Companion Animal Solutions is dedicated to helping owners experience the enjoyment they envisioned when they first adopted their best friend, be it dog, cat, or bird. We help owners modify their pet’s behavior using ethology, classical conditioning, and operant conditioning…. [Read More]
Cat behavior and misbehavior
Jim Ha, PhD, CAAB Cats are a mystery to many of their owners, perhaps more so than dogs. Dogs are social, like we primates, and so we can often understand their need for attention, the reward of social contact and praise, and even, at a deeper evolutionary level, perhaps a lot of their signals and… [Read More]