Dog Behavior Explained

Discover practical insights into why dogs behave the way they do and learn effective training solutions for common challenges. From reactivity and anxiety to breed-specific topics, my evidence-based articles help you and your dog navigate complex behaviors with confidence and compassion.

Brown and white pit bull looking forward with a happy expression, representing confidence and progress

The Departure Cue Myth: Why Your Vet's Separation Anxiety Advice May Be Making Things Worse

Vet says to desensitize your dog to keys? That’s wrong. Learn why focusing on departure cues fails— discover what cures separation anxiety.

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Sniffing for Success: How Nose Work Boosts Dog Sport Performance

Discover how sniffing boosts performance, focus, and recovery in sport and reactive dogs—trusted advice from Oakland’s top dog trainer.

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Why Every Dog Needs Decompression Walks (And How to Do Them Right)

Discover how decompression walks help dogs relax, reduce stress, and boost well-being. Learn how to set up the perfect sniff-filled outing!

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The Emotional Toll of Reactivity – Why It’s Not Just Your Dog Struggling

Struggling with a reactive dog in an apartment or shared space? Learn how reactivity affects both you and your dog—plus strategies to manage

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Canine Stress Explained: What Happens in Your Dog’s Body & How to Help

Learn how stress affects your dog & how to help them recover. Learn about cortisol, sniffing, & decompression walks for better well-being!

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The Science of Dog Sniffing: How It Reduces Stress and Improves Behavior

Did you know sniffing lowers stress, boosts confidence, and improves behavior? Learn why sniffing is essential for your dog’s well-being!

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The Departure Cue Myth: Why Your Vet's Separation Anxiety Advice May Be Making Things Worse

Vet says to desensitize your dog to keys? That’s wrong. Learn why focusing on departure cues fails— discover what cures separation anxiety.

Sniffing for Success: How Nose Work Boosts Dog Sport Performance

Discover how sniffing boosts performance, focus, and recovery in sport and reactive dogs—trusted advice from Oakland’s top dog trainer.

Why Every Dog Needs Decompression Walks (And How to Do Them Right)

Discover how decompression walks help dogs relax, reduce stress, and boost well-being. Learn how to set up the perfect sniff-filled outing!

The Emotional Toll of Reactivity – Why It’s Not Just Your Dog Struggling

Struggling with a reactive dog in an apartment or shared space? Learn how reactivity affects both you and your dog—plus strategies to manage

Canine Stress Explained: What Happens in Your Dog’s Body & How to Help

Learn how stress affects your dog & how to help them recover. Learn about cortisol, sniffing, & decompression walks for better well-being!

The Science of Dog Sniffing: How It Reduces Stress and Improves Behavior

Did you know sniffing lowers stress, boosts confidence, and improves behavior? Learn why sniffing is essential for your dog’s well-being!

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Featured Publications

Explore my collection of published work sharing advice and lessons discovered through dog relationships, wisdom gained from loving and training dogs, and life insights alongside practical dog behavior and training advice.

Managing Dog Reactivity in Shared Spaces: Practical Strategies for Stress-Free Living

Does your dog tense up at every hallway encounter? Living in a 'reactive building' can turn daily walks into a battlefield. Here's why reactivity spreads in apartments—and what you can do to stop it.

Loving Leroy: My First Heart Dog

A heart dog changes you forever. Leroy taught me about love, resilience, and the unexpected gifts life brings—like a small dog who carried his spirit forward in ways I never imagined.

When Goodbye Means A Meltdown: Solving Your Dog's Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety isn't just stress—it’s full-blown panic. With patience, the right approach, and modern tools, you can help your dog go from meltdown mode to mastering alone time with confidence.