Note: 12-22-08: I am redesining my site and am working on it as you read this. I will activate links as the linked pages are finished and published. Please check back for updates.
As a dog gentler I offer alternatives to harsh methods of forcing or coercing dogs to do training exercises; I avoid the use of cruel and abusive training equimpment, in fact for the most part I do not use any training equipment. For several reasons I avoid drug maintenence behavior modification treatment programs.; the adverse side effects of phamaceuticals is too often overlookedI believe that one of the most overlooked (and least considered) characteristics that influence a dog's behavior is the study of predation: the character of the predator .... your dog.
For the most part the training and behavior alternatives that I do offer are based on tried and true methods that I have used successfully and repeatedly. However, isasmuch as behaviors have their own personalities often improvised methods based on the behavior of the individual dog and spontanious ingenuity does the trick, too. Of course the human influence has a lot to do with the behavior of animals kept as pets (whether domestic or working) and so attention must be be focused on all aspects that influence the behavior dogs.
And so here's what I finally broke down to be the keys in communicating with dogs:
1. There is a reason for everything that happens. Behaviors don't "just happen", happen "out of the clear blue sky", or occur "for absolutely no reason at all".
2. All animals will repeat behaviors that are favorable to them or yield favorable responses within the relm of serving their best interest.
Based pretty much on these two principals you will find alternatives and solutions to the relationship challenges you may be experiencing with your own dog, or pick up enough o help a neighbor that's having dog problems. Hopefully here on my web site and you'll find reasons why your dog does what your dog does.
Enjoy!