Respectful Communications Animal Training

07/31/2025

Look for an ethical trainer before signing your dog up for training

07/30/2025

Great graphic and advice

Yes...a dog can take food and be terrified at the same time.
We shouldn't mistake taking food as consent or a dog being comfortable, especially if they are anxious.
Confliction is real.
Confliction happens when a dog feels opposing emotions.
They want the food.
They don't want to get closer to the person with the food.

So throw it!

Not closer to you.
It's not a trick.
This dog is scared and they need security.

While food can be a break through for some nervous dogs.....for some though I never use food.
That confliction can be incredibly strong and I don't want to add to their distress.
Pressure and food together can create a dangerous mix.
This dog is stuck between a desire for that food and fear.
A conflicted dog may approach, take food, and then snap.... not out of aggression, but from that inner turmoil.

A dog may approach to take food even if they’re not emotionally ready.
The body language will be clear here.

Fear cannot be bribed.

07/27/2025

If the behavior seems out of context there is a reason for that.

07/24/2025

Our work with dogs involves a two way communication in the moment and is not just about getting a certain behavior from the dog. Learning only happens when the student feels safe. Step one is to make sure your pet feels safe.

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07/20/2025

Please…. Do not leave your pet in the car I. This heat even with the windows open a bit. It’s too hot!

Every summer, pets suffer and even die from being left in hot cars. A few minutes can be deadly. At just 75°F outside, the inside of your vehicle can hit 94°F in 10 minutes. By 100°F outside, that shoots up to 134°F in 30 minutes.

⚠️ Pets can suffer heatstroke, organ failure, and death can occur in minutes.
❌ Cracked windows don't help.
✅ Take them with you or leave them at home where it's cool and safe.

Please don't risk their lives.

07/19/2025

It's very, very important to look at the whole picture and not take one or two body movements out of the current context when decoding the emotions of the animal in front of you.

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