Blog
A Positive Feedback Loop
I know this approach can feel a bit abstract at times. It’s natural to want clear “steps” or a recipe for success. But because we take a somatic, individualized approach—meeting each dog as they are—it’s not always possible to apply a one-size-fits-all formula. That said, having a simple framework can be incredibly helpful, so here’s a template to guide you. 1. ObserveStart by truly seeing your dog. Take time to notice what’s actually happening—body language, energy, patterns, and overall state. What is your dog communicating? What situations bring out certain behaviors? Write your observations down if that helps you stay...
Am I a Dog “Trainer”?
Handler Self-Care Part One: Your Oxygen Mask
We’ve all heard it: put your own oxygen mask on first, then help others. But this idea isn’t just for emergencies—it’s something we should be practicing every day. I’ve noticed that when I let myself get overwhelmed, stressed, and run down, I’m not the kind of caretaker I want to be for my animals. I feel drained, unfocused, and low on energy—and that means I’m not showing up fully for their needs. They don’t get the time, attention, and enrichment they deserve. So let’s change that. Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a responsibility. When you take care of yourself first, you...
Your Dog's Mouth is His Hand
Bite-and-Carry Channels Everything
When you clip the leash onto your dog, the two of you usually have very different goals in mind. You, being a simple human, might be looking forward to a peaceful walk—taking in the sights and sounds of a beautiful day. Or maybe you’re heading out for a jog, hoping to get your heart rate up and enjoy that runner’s high. Either way, your expectation is fairly straightforward: you and your dog will move together along a path, street, or sidewalk, in a relatively straight line, at a steady pace, politely ignoring distractions. Your dog, however, has a completely different...