Tag Archives: behavior modification

Preventing Resource Guarding in Puppies Through Positive Reinforcement

preventing resource guarding in puppies training guide

Nurturing Generosity: How to Gently Discourage Resource Guarding in Your Puppy By Will Bangura, M.S., CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, Certified Canine Behaviorist and Consultant Defining Resource Guarding Resource guarding is a behavior exhibited by puppies and dogs, where they show possessiveness over their resources, such as food, toys, or other valuable items. This behavior may […]

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 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 […]

Laser Pointer Obsession in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Behavior Modification

Dog Laser Pointer Obsessive Compulsive Behavior

By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Section 1: Understanding the Laser Pointer Obsession The Predatory Instinct: A Deep-rooted Drive Dogs, despite the countless years of domestication, still carry the instincts of their wild ancestors. These instincts include hunting, chasing, and the urge to capture prey. Every time […]

A Comprehensive Guide to Safeguarding Dogs with Fireworks Anxiety on the 4th of July

dog-fireworks-anxiety

by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP, (Dog BEhaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant   Part 1: Understanding the Situation and Preparation Understanding your dog’s anxiety and providing the right comfort is imperative, especially on occasions such as the 4th of July when fireworks are inevitable. Fireworks can be a source of terror for dogs, who […]

Teaching your dog gentle or easy

How to teach gentle or easy

Teaching your dog gentle or easy by Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist) Certified Behavior Consultant. Training a dog to be well-behaved and gentle is essential for both the dog’s well-being and the safety of those around them. One effective way to accomplish this is by teaching your dog the “gentle” or “easy” command. […]

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, […]

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.) […]