Reasons your puppy can’t focus on you outside and what to do about it. You and your new puppy have been faithfully practicing his little puppy “sit,” and he usually comes when called. Proud of your little guy, you confidently ask for a “sit” while outside in the yard. He looks up at you expectantly, then dashes away to chase a passing butterfly. Surprised, you call him back to you, promising a cookie for his swift return. He ignores you and continues his pursuit. What’s happening here? Why...

Holidays mean getting together with friends and family. If you have a dog and plan on hosting a holiday gathering this year, this article is for you.   Every year during the holiday season, my inbox receives a flurry of frantic messages of people reporting embarrassing, inconvenient, or concerning behavior from their dogs.   From obnoxiously jumping on guests to growling at Grandpa, many of our dogs behave (seemingly) bizarrely in front of company.   Most of the time, these issues could have...

Anyone that’s been bitten by an overly enthusiastic puppy can attest to how quickly cute becomes cringe. Puppies have sharp, needle-like teeth that can cause great discomfort to fragile human skin.   However, biting and nipping are normal forms of canine play and communication. In fact, puppies biting each other helps them learn how to control their mouth and use their teeth with precision.   Play biting and correction biting are essential communication tools for canines and prevent further...