Is Your Dog Ignoring You? Why "No" is the Least Effective Word You Use

"When we tell a dog 'no,' we might successfully stop the current action, but we leave a vacuum. Without a replacement behavior, your dog is just guessing what to do next—and they’ll usually guess wrong. To truly change behavior, we have to fill that void with a 'yes.' It’s the difference between being a policeman and being a coach."

behavior modification, behavior management, dog behavior, dog aggression, dog reactivity, dog trainer, dog trainingLaura BourhenneMarch 2, 2026#DogTrainingTips, #StopBarking, #BehavioralVoid, #ChoiceBasedTraining, #PuppyTraining, #DogBehaviorComment

Beyond the Treat: The Real Benefits of Reward-Based Dog Training

While "dominance-based" training (which was debunked decades ago) focuses on stopping bad behaviors through punishment and intimidation, positive reinforcement focuses on teaching the behaviors you want instead. Here is why it’s the superior choice for your furry best friend:

behavior modification, dog behavior, dog reactivity, dog trainer, dog training, puppy trainingLaura BourhenneFebruary 9, 2026dog behavior, dog training, positivereinforcement, positive reinforcement, puppy training, reward based training, force free training, canine psychology, science based dog training, positive dog trainingComment

Is Your Dog Stubborn—Or Are Your Expectations Too High?

"Your dog doesn't need to be a circus performer; they just need to be a functional, happy member of your family. Celebrate the small victories—like a loose-leash walk for half a block or a successful 'sit' at the vet—and remember that relationship always comes before results."

behavior modification, dog behavior, dog trainer, dog training, puppy training, behavior managementLaura BourhenneJanuary 19, 2026realistic expectations, realistic dog training goals, how long does dog training take, dog training timeline, managing dog behavior vs training, setting puppy milestones, dog training regression, #lifewithdogs, #trainyourdog, #puppytraining, #dogtrainingtipsComment

How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Calm When Holiday Guests Visit

To prevent your dog from begging or searching for dropped food, give them their own special holiday treat. A puzzle toy filled with peanut butter (xylitol-free!), a new chew toy, or a long-lasting dental chew can keep them happily occupied while you enjoy your meal.

dog health, dog behavior, dog training, dog trainer, dog safetyLaura BourhenneDecember 24, 2025dog safety, holiday guests, toxic foods for dogs, pet management, dog training, DogFriendlyHomeComment

Unleash Your Dog's Nose: Beginner's Guide to Scent Work

At its core, Scent Work is a training activity and sport where your dog is trained to locate specific target odors and alert you to their presence. It mimics the work of professional detection dogs (like those that search for drugs or explosives), but it's adapted for companion dogs in a recreational or competitive setting.

behavior modification, dog behavior, dog trainer, dog trainingLaura BourhenneNovember 27, 2025Scent Work training, low-impact dog sport, Nose Work, dog training, noseworkComment

How to Stop Your Dog from Jumping Up on Guests (Effective Training)

Tired of being knocked over every time you walk through the door? 👋 Your dog isn't trying to be rude—they're just too excited! This week's post dives into the only way to stop attention-seeking jumping: the Dramatic Exit method. Plus, learn how to use the "Go to Spot" command to manage that doorbell excitement. Say goodbye to muddy paw prints forever! 🐾

dog behavior, dog reactivity, dog trainer, dog trainingLaura BourhenneNovember 13, 2025jumping, dog behavior, dog training, stop dog jumping, positive reinforcement, dog greetings, jumping on guests, calm dog trainingComment

Beyond the Kennel: A Simple Guide to Successful Rescue Dog Integration

Remember: These initial rules are about setting a clear framework. Once your dog is settled, confident, and understands their place in the family, you can gradually relax some of these rules, always observing how your dog responds.

dog behavior, dog safety, dog trainer, dog training, rescue dogs, adopted dogsLaura BourhenneOctober 6, 2025rescue dogs, adopted dogs, new dogComment

The Art of Asking Permission: Your Guide to Proper Etiquette for Petting Strange Dogs

In the world of responsible pet ownership and dog interactions, understanding the etiquette of petting strange dogs isn't just polite; it's essential for dog safety, preventing dog bites, and ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved – especially the dog.

dog aggression, dog behavior, dog safety, dog trainer, dog trainingLaura BourhenneJune 22, 2025petting dogs, dog interactions, approaching dogs, dog biting, dog training, shy dogs, fearful dogs, anxious dogs, dog encounters, stress signals in dogs, preventing dog bites, dog body languageComment

Finding the Right Dog Trainer: A Guide for Dog Owners

As a dog owner, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right trainer for your furry friend. A good dog trainer can make a world of difference in your dog's behavior and your relationship with them. Here's what to look for when searching for the perfect trainer.

dog behavior, dog training, dog trainerLaura BourhenneFebruary 14, 2025Dog trainer, find a dog trainer, choose a dog trainer, dog training, puppy training, woodland hills, west hills dog trainer, dog trainer near me, calabasas dog trainer, agoura dog trainerComment