Dogs, really do not like hugs.  While some dogs, especially those trained as therapy dogs, can tolerate it, in general, dogs do not enjoy this interaction. Dogs rely on body language as a method of communication with humans and each other. Putting a limb over another dog is a way of exerting dominance and can be […]

If you celebrate Easter, you probably fondly remember going on Easter egg hunts as a child. Learning how to get your dog involved in the tradition allows you to never outgrow the fun. Here is a helpful guide to setting up a safe and fun Easter egg hunt for your dog.   Plastic Easter eggs can […]

The old saying “dogs are man’s best friend” is just as accurate as it is cliché. Various studies have proven the effects dogs have on our health and well-being. For instance, in 2011, the American Psychological Association found that pet owners had “greater self esteem, were more conscientious, were more extraverted, tended to be less fearful, […]

Citizens of Hillsborough County and dog trainers who have concerns about the proposed ordinance are encouraged to immediately contact Hillsborough County Commissioners to express your opposition, and to attend the meeting on November 15.

  A groundbreaking shelter study released today by the National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) reveals that U.S. animal shelters are reporting an all-time low in the number of purebred dogs available. The study finds that only about five percent of the dogs available in U.S. shelters are purebred; a significant departure from the 25% figure […]

by Lori Herbel Judging a herding trial is a tremendous responsibility. Consistency and fairness are the top priorities of the day, and the ability to comfortably make sensible split second decisions under pressure is a necessity. In order to help carry out this responsibility, a judge needs a trustworthy assistant by his side that he […]

Most herding dogs are naturally fetching dogs. That is, they always want to bring the sheep towards the handler. Some herding dogs are naturally driving dogs. That is, they move sheep in any direction without regard to the location of the handler. A very few herding dogs are both naturally driving and fetching dogs. You'd […]

It looks so innocent. Three sides...a swinging gate....a quiet, empty, beckoning space... and a six foot rope. Why is it then, that sheep often hit an invisible barrier as they approach this inanimate object we call the free-standing pen? Why do they stop, lean back, then shy away and hesitate to enter? Could it be […]

"Lie down..." "...Lie down." "Lie down!!" "Joe, I said lie down!" Dogs are gifted with an incredible sense of hearing. Research has proven that fact. Thousands of independent home studies have proven it too ask anyone who has accidentally bumped the 'cookie' jar lid and they'll tell you that even sleeping dogs three rooms away are […]

It’s not uncommon for a puppy to become so excited to see you that he accidentally leaves a puddle on the floor. Some dogs, no matter how well housebroken, suffer from what is called “submissive urination.” This embarrassing problem, for man and beast, usually occurs when the “pack leader” of the household comes home, and the […]