When Your Eyes Become Your Most Important Training Tool
Most people look at dogs constantly but rarely truly see them. There’s a profound difference between casual observation and the…
When “Reactive” Dogs Reveal Their True Selves
“Both of those dogs are reactive,” the trainer told me, gesturing toward two dogs whose behaviors had earned them that…
The Handler’s Role – Your Nervous System Is the Foundation for Relaxation
A lot of dog training is about finding ways to communicate to the dog what you want them to learn….
Choice vs. Command – Why Real Relaxation Can’t Be Forced
One key reason I developed Really Real Relaxation is that I got angry watching a trainer teach a dog to…
The Social Heart of Really Real Relaxation: Why Your State Matters Most
Here’s something that might surprise you: Really Real Relaxation (RRR) isn’t something you create for your dog—it’s something you share…
The Connection Problem: When Dogs Know But Won’t Listen
“My dog knows what I’m asking, but he just won’t listen.” This frustration echoes through every training facility as handlers…
Are You Training or Managing? Know the Difference!
Ever had that moment when your dog completely ignores you because he’s spotted a squirrel? Or maybe your Golden Retriever…
The Individual vs the Breed
“He’s a German Shepherd, so he should be good at protection work.” “She’s a Golden Retriever—perfect family dog.” “Mixed breeds…
The Mixing Board Approach to Distraction Training
Mastering the Three Variables of Distraction Training Think of a sound engineer at a concert, fingers dancing across a mixing…
When VAN Takes Over
Understanding the Brain’s “Circuit Breaker” for Attention Picture this scenario: Your dog is performing a beautiful, focused heel in training…
