For More Information

For More Information

Welcome fellow Nerds!

We are not ashamed to admit we are dog training nerds. There is no such thing as Too Much Information when it comes to finding interesting new ways to work with our clients and their dogs. Our methods are equal parts Science and Ethics. On this page we will share some of our sources of information and inspiration with you.

Important information for new puppy owners/guardians

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior Position Statement On Puppy Socialization

Playing with your dog is good for you too!

Our greatest goal as dog trainers is to create a harmonious relationship between dogs and their people. Our program is rooted in play and fun for everyone- especially when working with severe behavior like aggression or separation anxiety. Stuart Brown's research shows play is not just joyful and energizing -- it's deeply involved with human development and intelligence.

Learn to speak dog

Many dog bites could be prevented if parents and children were aware of the subtle communication signs that dogs send when they are anxious. An anxious dog is much more likely to bite than is a happy dog. There is a big difference between a dog that is tolerating interactions with children and a dog that is actually enjoying these interactions.

Zoom Room Guide to dog play gestures

A brief visual guide, created by the Zoom Room, to better understand the body language specific to dog play gestures - both the positive ones and the ones to watch out for - as exhibited by adult dogs and puppies when engaged in social activities.

If you're bringing your dog or puppy to socialize with other dogs at the Zoom Room, a dog park, or any other locale, this video will help you understand how dogs communicate with one another so that you can take the appropriate action, if necessary.

Is my dog dominant?

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior's position statement on the use of dominance theory in Behavior Modification of animals.

Dog's intelligence on par with two year old human

Dogs can also understand more than 150 words and intentionally deceive other dogs and people to get treats, according to psychologist and leading canine researcher Stanley Coren, PhD, of the University of British Columbia.

The intelligence of various types of dogs does differ and the dog's breed determines some of these differences, Coren says. "There are three types of dog intelligence: instinctive (what the dog is bred to do), adaptive (how well the dog learns from its environment to solve problems) and working and obedience (the equivalent of 'school learning')."

The truth about pitbulls

Jean Donaldson has been at the forefront of the science-based, non-force movement in dog training and behavior modification for over 35 years. As the director of the Academy for Dog Trainers at the SFSPCA, she has trained some of the best and brightest people in dog training and behavior.

There is perhaps no one better in the world of pet dog training at determining how best to deal with dogs in all situations as Jean Donaldson.

Don't lick the dog!

Meeting a new dog is exciting, but it can also be scary. This humorous how-to manual shows kids the best ways to interact with unfamiliar dogs, providing helpful tips about all sorts of dog behavior. Children often don’t understand what dogs’ actions mean and can misinterpret a threatening signal for a friendly one and vice versa. Kids and parents will return to Wendy Wahman’s playful illustrations again and again for useful reminders: Slow Down. Stay very still. And remember, don’t lick the dog!

Safe relationships between dogs and children

The aim of The Blue Dog(c) story is to educate parents and children about the safest way to interact with their dog in a household setting