Italiano's Pawsitive Pups Training

04/03/2026

MYTH: “He knows better.”

Aggression is not a moral failure.

It is behavior shaped by:
• Genetics
• Learning history
• Environment
• Stress load
• Physiological state

Attributing intent does not improve intervention.

Understanding drivers does.

When we shift from “He knows better” to “What is influencing this behavior?” the plan changes.

And so do outcomes.

04/02/2026

Yubi finally coming out to her livingroom while her sister is in the livingroom. 🥰 Her owners have worked so hard at this!

03/20/2026

I love explaining this to owners.

03/18/2026

I knew it was somebody's fault.... not mine

03/18/2026

Witness Baloo's journey to a brighter future unfold, as we take his first steps together. I'm thrilled to share how I introduced him to his collar and harness, setting the stage for a lifetime of adventure and discovery. I guickly discovered his sensitivity to pressure (which I don't use). Something as light as a harness or collar would set him off. It wasn't the act of putting on the harness or collar that posed a problem, but rather the feeling of wearing them that triggered anxiety, manifesting as aggression to those that didn't understand. Jumping and nipping at me, the harness, and leash became his way of coping. Recognizing his distress, we shifted our approach, focusing on building trust and comfort indoors, where he could grow accustomed to the sensations of wearing a harness and collar at his own pace. Only when he was ready did we gradually transition to outdoor walks, celebrating small victories along the way. By prioritizing his comfort and trust, I've been delighted to see Baloo transform into a confident companion, eagerly anticipating his leash and harness, and embarking on new adventures with enthusiasm.
(Video credit goes to my daughter 😂)

03/14/2026

Said perfectly 🥰

Stopping or suppressing behaviours may seem like it will achieve everything we want but that truth is that it will not.

Behaviour happens for a reason. It is communication. It is telling us that there is something occurring that makes the dog feel they need to show that behaviour in that moment.

Stopping the behaviour might initially stop our 'problem' but it doesn't address that why, the underlying cause and how the dog is feeling. That is what we need to understand before attempting to change (not just stop) behaviour.

Is something scaring the dog?

Are they uncomfortable or in pain?

Are they hungry or thirsty?

Are they able to carry out natural and normal behaviours regularly?

Is their communication and body language observed and respected, so they don't feel the need to escalate their signalling?

Are they bored and need more stimulation in their environment?

Are they over-stimulated and need to learn how to switch off and rest?

These are a (non-exhaustive) points to consider when our dogs do something we find problematic - the why of behaviour is always the first thing we must think about.

03/04/2026

Bonding and having a beautiful relationship with my clients and their pets is one of my favorite parts of my job. I share a deep connection and love with all of the animals I have a chance to work with. Helping them over come their fears and anxiety only bonds us closer. I love helping them feel more relaxed and confident about their life! This is what its all about for me.

02/14/2026

Show your Pups some love on Valentines day🥰

02/13/2026

I have to give Finnegan and her owners a huge shout out!! We took a picture today of her and all her certificates in all the classes she has participated in. We tooks this after she got her Canine Good Citizenship Certificate. Finnegan worked so hard to get here. She used to be afraid and anxious of so many new things and situations but her owners work with her so much to help her overcome her fears. With patience and compassion they have made it this far. She wont stop either!! She is always eager to learn and overcome as much as she can. It has been such an honor watching her grow! Working with your dog really pays off! Great work Finny!

01/29/2026

❄️Deciding when and for how long you should have a dog outdoors for exercise and play should be based on the following guidelines and your best judgment after considering all pertinent factors.
❄️Be particularly conservative with older dogs, and short-haired and smaller breeds.

01/29/2026

And just like that they are all relaxing together ❤️