Tag: behavior

Why Gut Health Matters for Dogs

Just like in humans, your dog’s digestive system affects everything from immune function to energy levels. And when something’s off in the gut, it often shows up in the most obvious way: loose stool.

At my dog daycare, I’ve seen all kinds of upset tummies—often due to food changes, stress, or just poor-quality diets. Supporting the gut with a few simple additions can make all the difference.

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Natural Gut Helpers Most Dogs Love

Before reaching for medications, I always try a few tried-and-true natural options first—especially when a dog has soft or inconsistent stool. These are safe, accessible, and dogs absolutely love them.

Libby’s 100% Canned Pumpkin

Plain canned pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling!) is a fiber-rich food that helps absorb excess water in the colon, firming up the stool gently. It also contains helpful vitamins and antioxidants.

• How to use it:
  Add 1–2 tablespoons to your dog’s meal (depending on size).
  Most dogs eat it eagerly—mine always have.

Plain Greek Yogurt

Rich in live probiotics, unsweetened Greek yogurt is fantastic for restoring healthy gut bacteria. I’ve never had a dog turn it down—and I’ve worked with hundreds. It’s cooling, creamy, and naturally beneficial.

• How to use it:
  Mix 1–2 tablespoons into food or serve it as a treat.
  Opt for full-fat, plain versions without added sugar or xylitol.

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My Surprise Find: Bernie’s Perfect Poop

I’ll be honest—I’m generally skeptical about supplements. I take some myself and rarely notice any difference. So I wasn’t expecting much when I tried Bernie’s Perfect Poop on dogs with digestive issues.

But the results? Undeniable.

Whether it’s soft stool, inconsistent digestion, or a dog going through food changes, Bernie’s Perfect Poop has made a visible difference every time I’ve used it. It combines:

• Grass-fed fiber to help firm stools

• Prebiotics and probiotics for gut balance

• Digestive enzymes to support nutrient absorption

I’ve seen stools go from mushy to perfectly formed in under 48 hours. For a supplement skeptic like me, that’s saying something.

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How I Use It at My Daycare

When I spot a dog with tummy troubles—especially one who’s new, anxious, or recently switched foods—my go-to protocol is:

1. Add pumpkin to their meals for immediate fiber

2. Mix in Greek yogurt for probiotic support

3. Introduce Bernie’s Perfect Poop at half dose for 1–2 days, then full dose

This three-step combo has worked consistently, and the dogs love all of it.

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Final Thoughts

Loose stool doesn’t have to be a mystery or a mess. With a few simple, dog-approved ingredients—plus one supplement that genuinely surprised me—you can help your dog feel better fast.

Want to try the supplement I trust most?
Check out Bernie’s Perfect Poop on our Products Page

Why Foraging Enrichment Matters for Your Dog

Is your dog bouncing off the walls with energy? Are you constantly looking for ways to keep your pup mentally stimulated without relying on constant training or playtime? Foraging enrichment could be the answer.

Dogs are natural foragers. Long before kibble bowls and training treats, their ancestors relied on their noses and brains to locate food in the environment. By tapping into this instinct, you can offer your dog an engaging and mentally enriching activity that reduces hyperactivity, builds focus, and gives you a well-earned break.

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What Is Foraging Enrichment?

Foraging is when dogs search for food using their noses, brains, and paws—just as they would in the wild. It’s a simple but highly effective form of enrichment that satisfies natural instincts, promotes mental engagement, and can even reduce problem behaviors caused by boredom.

Unlike puzzle toys that may require expensive purchases, foraging can be as easy as using a towel or blanket at home. It’s budget-friendly, flexible, and incredibly rewarding for your dog.

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Why Foraging Is So Powerful

Here’s what makes foraging such a great enrichment activity:

• Taps into natural instincts: Dogs are biologically wired to search for food.
• Reduces excess energy: Mental work can be just as tiring as physical exercise.
• Promotes calm behavior: A foraging dog is a focused dog.
• Provides independent entertainment: Great for puppies and adolescents when you need downtime.
• Builds patience and impulse control: Searching for food isn’t instant gratification.

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Blanket Foraging: A Simple, DIY Activity

One of the easiest ways to introduce foraging at home is with a “blanket forage.” Here’s how it works:

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start with a small blanket — something you don’t mind getting a little roughed up.

2. Place 3 high-value treats spaced apart and fold the blanket over once.

3. Add 3 more treats, fold again, and repeat until you’ve layered treats and folds. Think of a lasagna.

4. Let your dog get to work — sniffing, pawing, and unrolling the blanket to find the hidden snacks.

Pro Tip: Use high-value treats that really motivate your dog.
Check out our recommended training treats here

Download my FREE document on The Blanket Foraging
Click here to download the PDF guide

Want to see it in action?

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No More “Free” Treats

If you’re already giving your dog treats “for free,” you’re missing an opportunity. Foraging encourages your dog to work for rewards—just like they were bred to do. Make enrichment part of your routine by asking for a simple behavior like a sit or a down before offering a chance to forage.

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Enrichment Isn’t Just a Trend—It’s a Need

Just like physical exercise, mental stimulation is essential for your dog’s well-being. Foraging is one of the easiest, most natural, and cost-effective ways to meet this need—and it’s especially helpful for busy pet parents.

So the next time your pup seems restless, skip the extra walk and try a blanket forage session instead. Your dog will thank you.

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Image Alt Text:
Dog using its nose and paws to search for treats hidden in a folded blanket – a simple DIY foraging enrichment activity.

Why a Reliable Name Response Matters

Before you can teach your dog anything, you need their attention. Whether you want them to come when called, leave something alone, or follow a cue like “sit,” name response is the gateway—it’s how you break through distraction and establish communication in any setting.

A strong name response isn’t automatic—it’s trained. And if you’re using your dog’s name repeatedly without reinforcing it, you might be unintentionally teaching them to ignore you.

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Saying the Name Without Reward Teaches Ignoring

If your dog hears their name and nothing good happens, they’ll stop responding when something else is more interesting.

Here’s what typically happens:

• You say your dog’s name.

• They glance at you… but no reward follows.

• Next time, they don’t bother looking.

This builds name fatigue—the cue loses its value because it’s not associated with anything meaningful.

The fix: Use a consistent verbal praise marker (like “Yes!” or “Good boy!”) immediately followed by a high-value meat treat every single time. This process, grounded in Pavlovian (classical) conditioning, teaches your dog that praise predicts something valuable.

Over time, the praise itself becomes rewarding—but only if it has been reliably paired with food in the learning phase.

“If you reward him every time you use his name, he’ll learn to always give you his attention.” — from The Name Game PDF

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Generalization: Training for Real-Life Situations

Many owners say, “He listens at home, but not outside.” That’s not disobedience—that’s incomplete training. Dogs don’t naturally generalize behavior across different environments. You have to teach them.

To get a name response in real-world distractions (like squirrels, bikes, or other dogs), you need to intentionally build up to it through staged generalization.

Start Simple → Add Complexity

1. Quiet indoor space 

2. Indoor with mild background noise

3. Backyard or enclosed outdoor area

4. Front yard or sidewalk

5. Local park or trail

6. Outside a dog park or school at pickup time

Don’t jump from step 1 to step 6 overnight and insert smaller steps when needed. i.e. Between steps 2 and 3 add more background noise if your dog is failing too often when you go outside.

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Pro Tips to Strengthen Name Response

• Use the same verbal marker (e.g., “Yes!” or “Good dog!”) every time your dog turns toward you.

• Follow the marker immediately with a high-quality meat treat—the gold standard in positive reinforcement.

• Avoid repeating the name if your dog doesn’t respond. Try again later with fewer distractions.

• Don’t use the name before giving a correction (e.g., “Fido, NO!”), as this can poison the cue.

• Once the response is solid, you can use a variable reinforcement schedule where you only reward 75% of the time for a few days/weeks, then 50% of the time for a few days/weeks, and finally 20% of the time.  The Variable reinforcement is taking full advantage of the classical conditioning you’ve completed. Your dog has received a reward so often and consistently that they have come to associate the praise with the reward. You’ve taught your dog persistence, and they will perform at an even higher level.

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Why the Name Game Works

The Name Game method conditions your dog to associate their name with positive attention and rewards. It’s simple, effective, and perfect for daily micro-sessions.

Best used when:

• Your dog is calm and awake

• The environment is distraction-free

• You can gradually escalate the challenge

Download the printable Name Game instructions here: The Name Game PDF

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Final Thoughts: Earn Their Ears

If your dog doesn’t want to look at you when you say their name, you have to make it worth their while. Reward generously. Practice in new settings. Raise the bar slowly.

The result? A dog who whips their head around when you say their name—even when a squirrel bolts across the path.

Here’s a video of me demonstrating the name response in a low distraction environment. Yes, it’s that easy!

If you want your dog to be calm at the vet, tolerant with children, and comfortable during grooming, play, and affection, early body handling exercises are essential. This often-overlooked part of early socialization can make the difference between a fearful dog and a cooperative companion.

What Are Body Handling Exercises?

These are gentle, intentional touches that help your puppy learn to accept handling of their entire body—especially sensitive areas like the mouth, nose, eyes, ears, paws, and tail.

Think of it as teaching your dog that human touch = good things, not stress or discomfort.

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Why It’s Critical to Start Early

Puppies go through a socialization window that closes around 16 weeks. During this time, they’re most open to new experiences. That includes touching these areas:

• Paws, toes and pads (for nail trims)

• Mouth, lips, gums and teeth (for dental checks)

• Underside of the ears (for vet exams and grooming)

• Tail wags and belly rubs (for baths and towel drying)

If these touches aren’t introduced early—slowly and positively—they can become triggers for fear, avoidance, or even aggression later in life. Several studies shows that puppies exposed to early handling are more resilient to stress as adults. NIH | Veterinary Ireland Journal | Purdue University

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How to Get Started: Gentle Steps to Success

Begin handling exercises when your pup is calm—after playtime or a nap is ideal. Keep sessions short, fun, and rewarding.

Here’s your beginner’s checklist:

• Eyes: Lightly stroke around the eyes with your fingers.

• Ears: Gently lift each ear flap and take a peek inside.

• Mouth & Gums: Briefly lift the lips to expose the teeth.

• Paws: Touch each paw pad and gently wiggle the toes.

• Tail: Stroke from the base to the tip.

• Belly & Chest: Run your hand softly along the belly and chest.

Always pair each touch with praise or a tasty treat—this builds trust and positive associations.

Check out this video of me handling Penny. She missed this kind of handling as a puppy, so you’ll notice subtle signs of stress like lip licks and yawns—but she’s learning! It’s never too late, even for adult dogs.

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Pro Tips for Tail-Wagging Progress

• Use high-value treats (think: bits of chicken or cheese).

• Go slowly—your goal is comfort, not compliance.

• Stop at low levels of stress. Download the Stress Escalation Ladder to learn how to identify low level stress indicators.

• Short daily sessions are better than long, infrequent ones.

• Involve the whole family, including kids (supervised).

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Lifelong Benefits of Early Handling

Dogs that grow up with positive touch experiences are:

• Easier to examine at the vet

• More tolerant of grooming

• Safer around children

• Less likely to bite when injured

• More confident in new environments

• Less expensive—because you can do basic grooming at home

• More likely to enjoy physical affection

This tiny time investment now pays off for the rest of your dog’s life.

Keep Building Positive Experiences

Make body handling exercises part of your daily routine. Just like brushing up on basic obedience, a few minutes of calm handling helps prevent future problems.

Want to go deeper into early socialization? Don’t miss:
The Truth About Puppy Socialization and Why Timing Matters

Looking for tools to help? Browse our curated list of:
Best Puppy Grooming Tools for Positive Handling at Home

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Conclusion

Body handling exercises are one of the kindest and most practical gifts you can give your puppy. It fosters trust, reduces fear, and lays the foundation for a lifetime of low-stress care.

Start today—your future dog (and your vet!) will thank you.

As a professional dog trainer who has worked with hundreds of dogs and families, I often find myself helping parents understand not just how to train their dogs, but how to keep their children safe around them.

Recently, I was working with a young family introducing their dog PJ to Bronco, a German Shepherd mix I’ve trusted for years. Bronco is tall and lanky—much bigger than PJ—and while I usually wouldn’t pair such a size difference for a first social introduction, Bronco’s excellent temperament made him a good candidate. But something happened during the session that prompted me to write this post. As I turned to answer a parent’s question, I caught their 8-year-old daughter bending over to hug Bronco. She’s absolutely smitten with dogs, but like many kids, she doesn’t yet understand dog body language. Bronco was clearly anxious—he pulled back and immediately gave consecutive lip licks. I intervened quickly. That moment stayed with me, because I know it could have ended badly. Plus, I know the statistics.

Why Dogs Don’t Like Hugs

This might sound controversial, but it’s a fact: most dogs don’t like hugs. Hugs are a human, primate behavior—canines simply don’t show affection this way. However, some dogs learn to tolerate it. In rare cases a few may even enjoy it. More importantly, the majority feel anxious or stressed when a person, especially a child, puts their arms around them or leans into their face. When a dog feels stressed, it will often communicate discomfort through subtle signs long before growling or biting. These include:

• Lip licking
• Yawning
• Turning the head away
• Stiffening of the body
• Whale eye (showing the whites of the eyes)
• Raised lips or growling (these are late-stage warnings)

Unfortunately, parents often miss these early signals. If a dog seems to tolerate hugs, it doesn’t mean they enjoy them. In most cases, it means they’re enduring discomfort until they can’t anymore.

Dog Bite Statistics Involving Children

Here’s an uncomfortable truth: most dog bites happen from dogs the child knows. Often, it’s the family dog that bites. To put things into perspective, let’s look at a few key dog bite statistics:

• 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the U.S.
  • About 800,000 require medical attention. Source: Canine Journal
• Children are at higher risk, especially those aged 5 to 9 years. Source: National Library of Medicine
• 65% to 85% of dog bites involve familiar dogs, including the family pet. Source: AVMA

What Parents Can Do to Prevent Dog Bites

Education is key. With the right guidance, you can reduce risk significantly. Here’s how:

1. Learn to read canine body language. Recognize signs of stress like lip licking, yawning, head turns, and stiffness. Then, teach your child what those signs look like in your dog.
2. Never punish the growl. A growl is your dog’s early warning—it’s a gift. Therefore, punishing it can lead to more dangerous behaviors like biting without warning. Saying “No!” or “Bad Boy!” is punishment.
3. Use slowly progressive desensitization. Help your dog become comfortable with close contact through short, structured sessions (like husbandry training), always using positive reinforcement.
4. Video your dog when your child gets close and review the footage together. If your child hugs your dog after being asked not to, this approach can help. Reviewing a clip allows kids to better understand what discomfort looks like.
5. Use positive reinforcement with your child. Just like dogs, kids respond well to encouragement. Therefore, offer praise or a small reward for calm, respectful, and gentle behavior around dogs.
6. Supervise all interactions with children under age 9. Never leave young children alone with a dog—no matter how trusted the dog is.

In my own practice, I’ve only met a handful of dogs out of the 500+ I’ve worked with that genuinely enjoy being hugged. Most simply don’t. Even bending over a dog and petting it on the head—a natural human gesture—can feel threatening to some dogs.

Want to Learn More About Dog Body Language?

Understanding your dog’s stress signals is one of the most important parts of preventing bites. Here are a few helpful resources:

• How to Read Dog Body Language – Dog Life Pro
• Video on TikTok: Dog Stress Signals Explained — A narrated video by Kelly Joy Argue (itsthatcrazydoglady), describing a dog’s body language during child interaction
• Stress Escalation Ladder by Turid Rugaas — A visual guide to how stress signals escalate in dogs

Reviewing these materials with your child can be a fun and educational bonding experience. Additionally, discussing them during family time reinforces what safe, respectful interaction looks like. Ultimately, the more you and your child learn to observe, the safer everyone becomes. Stay safe and keep training smart.

What Clever Hans Teaches Us About Dog Body Language and Human Behavior

In the early 1900s, a horse named Clever Hans amazed crowds by tapping his hoof to solve math problems. Many believed he understood arithmetic—but animal behaviorists later discovered the truth. Hans wasn’t doing math; he was reading subtle human body language cues, like posture shifts and facial expressions. This phenomenon, now known as the “Clever Hans Effect,” is a powerful reminder for modern dog trainers and pet parents. Dogs, like Hans, are expert observers. They respond to the smallest human behaviors—often without us realizing it. What we interpret as a dog “understanding” or being “stubborn” may actually be a reflection of our unintentional cues. Anthropomorphizing—assigning human thoughts and emotions to dogs—can lead to miscommunication and frustration. Instead, focus on what your dog’s body language is really saying, and how your own behavior might be influencing theirs. At Dog Life Pro, we teach positive, science-based dog training that helps you communicate clearly and consistently. Whether you’re working on basic obedience or introducing your dog to new environments, understanding body language is key. So next time your dog “just knows” what to do, remember Clever Hans—it might not be magic. It’s behavior.