Dana- Take: Opinions and Direction on Canine Behavior
After more than a decade working with dogs and the people who love them, I have some opinions. Some came from training thousands of repetitions, some came from behavior cases that did not follow the textbook, and some came from realizing that what sounds good in theory does not always work for the dog standing in front of you.
Dana’s Take is where I talk about the bigger conversations in dog training and behavior — aggression, anxiety, reactivity, socialization, leadership, training methods, breed instincts, relationships, board-and-train, dog parks and all the places where the answer is rarely as simple as “do this one thing.” These are not generic dog-training tips. They are lessons, observations and perspectives shaped by years of working with real dogs, real families and plenty of cases that forced me to rethink what I thought I knew.
The Missing Link in Dog Training: Helping Fearful, Anxious, and Reactive Dogs Find Calm
Training alone can’t fix fear or anxiety. True transformation happens when we address the dog’s body, mind, and emotions — not just obedience. Learn how my Whole-Dog Approach helps reactive and anxious dogs finally find peace and confidence.
Why Force Free Training May Not Work For Your Dog
Why Force-Free Training Doesn’t Work for Every Dog: The Case for Balanced, Compassionate Training
Does Neutering Calm Dogs Down?
Unneutered dogs may show frustration or aggression when natural mating instincts are suppressed. Learn how hormones affect male and female dogs, whether neutering helps, and natural ways to restore balance.
Behavioral Changes After Vaccines
Behavior Changes in Dogs After Vaccines | Why It Happens and How to Help
The Power of An On Off Switch
Power of the ON OFF Switch. Do you know how to get your dog settled?
The Role of Leadership On Dog Reactivity
The role leadership plays in reactivity and behavior.
Emotional Roots In Behavior & Health
Emotional Roots in Your Dog’s Behavior and health. Looking beyond training and into the deep rooted emotions your pet may be carrying that is contributing to health, wellness or behavioral concerns.
Are You Being Fair To Your Dog
Are you being fair to your dog? Do you respect what your dog likes, dislikes, and is capable of. Do you protect him from visitors? Push to far too fast.
Whose Stress Is It?
When you are stressed look at your pet. When your pet is stressed look in the mirror
Your Dog Mirrors Your Energy
Your dog will mirror your energy back to you. What you need to understand about how your own thoughts and stress or environment may affect your dog’s behavior.
