Behavior specialists in Portland and shelter educators nationwide say what looks like deliberate mischief is often play or an attempt to communicate a different need, not spite. Read On…
Certified trainers and a pet-care organization identify relaxed body language, brief soft eye contact and willingness to take treats as common signs a dog trusts its owner. Read On…
Experts including Sian Lawley-Rudd and Petrina Firth argue that dogs treat names as signals to pay attention, not as words that denote a self-concept; exceptional animals like Chaser show advanced word-learning but do not redefine the general rule. Read On…
A series of items published by the Iowa Park Leader between Dec. 24 and Dec. 26, 2025, reviews common veterinary reasons a dog might refuse to enter a home each evening and outlines approaches veterinarians recommend. Read On…
A University of Bristol study led by Dr. Zoe Parr-Cortes tested 18 dogs in 2024 and found that human stress and relaxation odors influence canine behaviour, with stress scents making dogs less willing to take a perceived risk. Read On…
Two trainers tell Kinship that dogs rip paper as a natural outlet and a form of sensory play, and that the behavior can begin as curiosity and turn into habit when it is rewarding. Read On…
When a dog lowers its front end with elbows on the ground and lifts its rear, it is usually inviting play; the posture often appears with a relaxed face and a little bark. Read On…
Dogs often check on owners while they shower for curiosity, social bonding or to seek attention, experts at Synergy Veterinary Behavior and guidance from the American Kennel Club say. Read On…
Puppy Training Specialist Kim Paciotti says starting with a visible 'place' cue — a mat or bed — helps puppies understand expectations and settle more reliably than the traditional first command, 'sit'. Read On…
Alexandra Bassett of Dog Savvy describes behaviors such as following an owner from room to room, lying at their feet and ecstatic greetings as signs a dog may have a favorite person, while cautioning that exclusive dependence can cause distress. Read On…