Author Archives: Dog Behaviorist

The Science of Canine Socialization: A Guide for Pet Parents

Canine Critical Socialization Period

The Science of Canine Socialization: A Guide for Pet Parents By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP.(Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Introduction Today, we’re diving deep into a critical topic: puppy and dog socialization. This concept is often misunderstood, but we’re here to provide you with a comprehensive, science-based guide. Please Share this […]

Comprehensive Guide, Reducing Dog Reactivity, and Evidence-Based Methods.

Training_For_Reactive_Dogs

Evidence-Based Training to Reduce Dog Reactivity: A Step-by-Step Guide for Lasting Behavior Change By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Introduction: This comprehensive training plan is designed to address a common but complex issue many pet parents face: reactivity and excessive barking in dogs when exposed to specific […]

Comprehensive Guide to Manage Dog Barking: Evidence-Based Positive and Differential Reinforcement Techniques

A focused dog listening intently to a trainer's command, illustrating the effectiveness of Positive and Differential Reinforcement techniques for managing dog barking.

Silence is Golden: Your Ultimate Guide to Managing Dog Barking Using Positive and Differential Reinforcement By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Introduction Why Addressing Barking is Important Barking is a natural form of communication for dogs. However, excessive barking can become problematic and may indicate underlying behavioral […]

Classical Counter-Conditioning Treating Canine Aggression and Reactivity

BAT LAT CAT-SD/CC

In Defense of Classics: Why Classical Counter-Conditioning Reigns Supreme in Treating Canine Aggression and Reactivity By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant In the nuanced world of canine behavioral therapy, there is no shortage of methods aimed at treating aggression and reactivity. While new approaches like Behavior Adjustment […]

Debunking The Dog Daddy: Why Augusto Deoliveira’s Training Methods Are Harmful and Dangerous

The Dog Daddy Harmful Training Methods Exposed

The Danger Behind the Charisma – A Critical Look at The Dog Daddy’s Training Methods By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP In the sprawling digital landscape of pet care advice and dog training tutorials, certain figures stand out — not for their expertise or ethical approach, but for their ability to captivate an […]

The Comprehensive Guide to Positive Muzzle Training for Dogs: Step-by-Step, Science-Backed Methods for Safe and Effective Training

Dog happily wearing a basket muzzle as a result of positive muzzle training techniques

Positively Conditioning Your Dog to a Basket Muzzle: A Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Guide By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Introduction Conditioning your dog to wear a muzzle can be an invaluable training tool for various behavioral or safety reasons. Whether you’re dealing with reactive behavior, medical issues that […]

Debunking Myths Over The Use of Food in Dog Training

Use of Food in Dog Training

The Importance of Food in Dog Training and Debunking Prevalent Myths  By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP Introduction It’s often said that “food is the way to a man’s heart,” but it seems that this sentiment isn’t exclusive to humans. For our canine companions, food holds an irreplaceable role not just in their […]

Debunking Myths About Positive Reinforcement in Dog Training: A Comprehensive Guide

Differential Reinforcement

Debunking Myths: Understanding Positive Reinforcement and Differential Reinforcement By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog Behaviorist,) Certified Dog Behavior Consultant The Myths and Why They Persist Myth 1: Positive Reinforcement Trainers Don’t Say ‘No’ Why It Persists The cultural myth of the stern, dominant dog trainer has been deeply ingrained through media and […]

Research and Organizations Against Aversive Tools and Training Methods in Dog Training

Never Punish Dog Aggression

Studies Against the Use of Aversives in Training Dogs These studies, along with many others, provide evidence that the use of aversive methods and tools in dog training is unnecessary and can cause more harm than good. Positive reinforcement training methods are effective, and humane, and promote a strong bond between the dog and their […]

Why Positive Reinforcement is the Best Method for Dog Training: Science-Backed Insights

Infographic_comparing_4_dog_training_methods_including_Ecollar_positive_reinforcement_and_prong_collar

Humanely Effective: Debunking Myths About Positive Reinforcement in Dog Training by Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Dog Behaviorist) Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Introduction The world of dog training is often polarized by differing philosophies and methods, particularly when it comes to the debate between “Balanced Training” and “Positive Reinforcement Training.” The crux of […]