Comprehensive Guide to Managing Fireworks Anxiety in Dogs Fireworks displays, especially during holidays like the 4th of July, can be a source of extreme anxiety for many dogs. The loud noises, bright lights, and sudden bursts can be terrifying for our canine companions, leading to behaviors that indicate high stress and fear. According to statistics, […]
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. […]
How to Desensitize and Counter-Condition Your Dog for Stress-Free Nail Trims: A Comprehensive Guide By Will Bangura, M.S., CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Introduction Nail trimming is a necessary part of a dog’s grooming routine, but for many pet parents, it can quickly turn into a dreaded task. Whether it’s […]
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 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.) […]
Understanding Anxiety vs. Fear in Dogs: Key Differences and How to Tell Them Apart By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist,) Certified Behavior Consultant. Understanding the differences between dogs with anxiety and fears is crucial for effective training and behavior modification. While these two conditions may seem similar, they have distinct differences that require […]
Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) is a dog behavior modification method developed by Grisha Stewart, a professional dog behaviorist, dog trainer and behavior consultant. BAT primarily aims to help dogs overcome their fears, anxieties, and aggressive behaviors through positive reinforcement […]
Treating Canine Separation Anxiety: An Overview and Solutions for Dog Owners By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Separation anxiety is a common behavioral issue in dogs that can be a frustrating experience for both the dog and its owner. It occurs when a dog becomes overly attached to their […]
Help For Fear of Veterinary Visits By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Fear of veterinary visits is a common issue in dogs and can cause significant stress and anxiety for both the pet and its owner. The fear may stem from previous painful experiences, unfamiliar surroundings, or unfamiliar handling […]
Counter-conditioning and desensitization: Exposure therapy for dogs By Will Bangura, M.S., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, (Dog Behaviorist), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Counter-conditioning and desensitization for dogs are two commonly used techniques for helping dogs overcome fears and phobias. These techniques involve changing a dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus by associating it with something positive. […]