Author Archives: Dog Behaviorist

Beyond Dominance Theory: Unveiling the Truth About Dog Aggression and Modern Training Methods

Rethinking Canine Behavior Beyond Dominance

The Dangers of Decades of Disinformation on Dogs, Dominance Theory, and Dog Aggression Training By Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Certified Canine Behaviorist and Behavior Consultant)  Introduction to Rethinking Canine Aggression Canine aggression is a widely discussed yet often misunderstood aspect of dog behavior. Historically framed within the context of dominance and power […]

Counterconditioning and Desensitization Training For Dogs

Person walking a calm dog on a leash, demonstrating counterconditioning and desensitization techniques.

Counterconditioning and Desensitization: The Two Pillars of Behavior Modification For Dogs By Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, Certified Canine Behaviorist and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Unlike basic obedience training, which focuses on teaching commands, behavior modification aims to address and alter the underlying causes of behavioral issues, thereby achieving lasting change. It targets the dog’s […]

Stop Your Dog From Stealing Things

French Bulldog leaning not to steal shoes

How to Stop a Dog From Stealing Personal Items Through Positive Reinforcement Dogs, with their curious nature and love for exploration, may sometimes develop a habit of stealing personal items. While it might seem amusing at first, this behavior can lead to frustration and potential safety risks for your dog. Addressing this issue with understanding, […]

How to Stop Puppy Biting

A young golden retriever puppy gently biting a human's finger.

Effective Puppy Bite Inhibition: Gentle Training Strategies By Will Bangura, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Dog Behaviorist) Certified Dog Behavior Consultants In the journey of raising a well-mannered and sociable canine companion, teaching bite inhibition is one of the fundamental milestones. Bite inhibition, the ability of a dog to control the force of its mouth when biting, […]

The Quiet Command and How to Stop Excessive Barking 

Dog practicing the quiet command on grass to reduce excessive barking

Mastering the Quiet Command: A Comprehensive Guide to Reducing Exsessive Dog Barking By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog Behaviorist,) Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Excessive barking in dogs is not just a disturbance to pet guardians and their neighbors; it’s a behavior that can signal underlying issues such as anxiety, boredom, or territorial behavior. […]

How to Train Your Dog to Stop Chasing: A Comprehensive Guide

Behavior Specialist for Dogs that Chase

How to Train Your Dog to Stop Chasing: A Comprehensive Guide   By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog Behaviorist) Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Chasing behavior in dogs is a complex phenomenon that straddles the line between natural instinct and potential problem. At its core, the urge to chase stems from a dog’s ancestral hunting drive, […]

Superbowls Pattern Game Training Guide Developed by Leslie McDevitt

A French Bulldog sitting in front of four colorful bowls on the ground with 'Superbowls Pattern Games' text above.

Introduction to the Superbowls Pattern Game Developed by Leslie McDevitt By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Leslie McDevitt is a well-known dog trainer who has contributed significantly to the field of dog behavior with her “Control Unleashed” program. The Superbowls Pattern game is an integral part of this […]

How to Teach Impulse Control in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

How to teach a dog impulse control

How to Teach a Dog Impulse Control: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Modifying Impulse Control in Dogs By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Certified Dog Behavior Consultant/Dog Behaviorist) Defining Impulse Control in Canine Behavior Impulse control in dogs is a multifaceted aspect of canine behavior that involves their ability to manage spontaneous reactions […]

Stop Destructive Chewing: Proven Training Techniques for Puppies and Dogs

Trained Labrador Retriever sitting peacefully in a tidy living room, surrounded by various dog toys, representing successful management of destructive chewing behavior.

Effective Solutions for Stopping Destructive Chewing in Dogs and Puppies: A Comprehensive Guide  Destructive chewing, a common challenge faced by pet guardians, is more than just a nuisance; it’s a window into the natural instincts and emotional states of our canine companions. Dogs and puppies, much like their wild counterparts, are innately inclined to chew. […]

Dog Anxiety or Lack of Enrichment? Unmasking the Mystery with Activities

Dog Anxiety versus Lack of Enrichment

Does Your Dog Have Anxiety or a Lack of Enrichment? By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Dog Behaviorist) Certified Dog Behavior Consultant  When we think about our canine companions, their well-being is often at the forefront of our minds. Just like us, dogs can experience anxiety, which can significantly impact their quality of life. […]