Author Archives: Dog Behaviorist

Canine Body Language Signals Guide

Canine Body Language Signals Guide

Canine Body Language Signals Guide by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP. Understanding canine body language is an essential skill for dog owners, trainers, and anyone who interacts with dogs. Dogs communicate their emotions, intentions, and desires through a complex system of body language signals. By learning to recognize and interpret these signals, we can […]

Balanced Training vs. Evidence-Based Scientific Dog Training Methods.

balanced dog training positive reinforcement training

Balanced Training vs. Evidence-Based Scientific Dog Training Methods by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP First and foremost, I would like to disclose that in the past, I had practiced the “Balanced Trainer” approach, which involved utilizing aversive training techniques and tools, such as prong, choke, and electronic collars to correct dog behavior. However, as […]

Why You Should Never Punish Dog Aggression

Never Punish Dog Aggression

image courtesy of DogNostics.com Why You Should Never Punish Dog Aggression Why You Should Never Punish Dog Aggression by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist,) Certified Behavior Consultant. Aggression in dogs is a common behavioral problem that can be dangerous and difficult to manage. However, it is important to understand that aggression is not […]

Dog Phobias

Dog Phobias

Dog Phobias by Will Bangura, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist,) Certified Behavior Consultant Dogs are wonderful companions, but like humans, they can develop phobias or irrational fears of certain situations or stimuli. These phobias can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life and cause distress for both the dog and its owner. Understanding the signs and […]

Treat and Retreat Dog Training

Treat and Retreat Dog Training

Treat and Retreat: An Overview of Suzanne Clothier and John Fisher’s Systems by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist,) Certified Behavior Consultant. Dog training is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. It involves teaching dogs new behaviors and reinforcing desirable behaviors through positive reinforcement techniques. While there are several approaches to dog training, […]

The Art of Introducing Dogs

The Art of Introducing Dogs

The Art of Introducing Dogs an Overview of Louise Ginman’s Book by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist,) Certified Behavior Consultant. Introducing dogs can be a complex and crucial process that requires careful planning and execution, particularly when dealing with aggressive or fearful dogs. Inadequate introductions can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities […]

Labrador Retriever Training

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever Training and Breed Information The Labrador Retriever, commonly known as Lab or simply Labrador, is a popular dog breed that dog lovers worldwide have cherished for decades. Known for their loyalty, intelligence, and friendly demeanor, Labrador Retrievers have become one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. Origin and History. The Labrador […]

Understanding Thresholds and Canine Body Language : The Key to Successful Counterconditioning and Desensitization

Canine Thresholds

Understanding Thresholds and Canine Body Language: The Key to Successful Counterconditioning and Desensitization by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist) Certified Behavior Consultant If you have a dog with anxiety, fear, phobias, reactivity, or aggression, changing these emotional states and their corresponding behaviors is through a behavior modification process known as counterconditioning and desensitization (D/CC.) […]

Dispelling the Myth: Feeding a Scared Dog Will Not Make It Worse

Feeding a scared dog will not make it worse

Dispelling the Myth: Feeding a Scared Dog Will Not Make It Worse by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Behavior Consultant. As a Certified Behavior Consultant and Certified Professional Dog Trainer, it is essential to dispel myths and misconceptions about dog behavior and training. One of the most persistent and harmful myths is […]

Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) Revisited: What the Critics, Experts, and Science Have to Say?

behavior adjustment training bat revisited what the critics Experts and Science Have to Say

Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) Revisited: What the Critics, Experts, and Science Have to Say? by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Certified Behavior Consultant (Dog Behaviorist.) This article will uncover the facts behind BAT training for dogs. We will look at what BAT is and how it works, the history of BAT, the pros and cons, […]