The Academy Blog
Can Dogs Really Play Pretend with Life-sized Dolls?
It’s been asserted that using a realistic stuffed dog (a “fugazi”) provides developmental benefits to young puppies as well as social and mental benefits to adult dogs, thanks to dogs’ presumed ability to pretend these toys are real. I worry these unsubstantiated claims might do more harm than good.
If They Could March
If They Could March -by Jean DonaldsonIf dogs could march on Washington, what would they march about? Adequate food, shelter, veterinary care? Big ticket stuff, but I doubt it. When people march, it’s never for something everybody already agrees on and for...
Puppies, Prestige, and the Power of Pessimism
Puppies, Prestige, and the Power of Pessimism Dogs don’t seem to invest much of their behaviour in creating and maintaining hierarchies, but we humans sure do. In fact, our very human desire for status can affect our dogs in a few ways...and usually, not for the...
The Danger of Dangling Reinforcement Schedules: A Dog Training Manifesto
The Danger of Dangling Reinforcement Schedules A Dog Training Manifesto Over your career as a pet dog professional, how many times have you fielded the question: "When can I stop with the treats?"If you’re like most trainers, the truth is probably...
No Funds for Training?
No Funds for Training? Academy trainers share advice for getting the help you need. Anyone with a dog knows that dogs can bring unexpected expenses: veterinary emergencies, equipment failure, or even house repairs! Sometimes we can plan for and cover...
A Letter of Resignation
A Letter of Resignation -by Torie Silletto, CTC, CPDT-KAI am disappointed to announce my resignation from this field. After years of education, hard work and dedication, I have to finally admit that I am just not up to snuff. This profession is truly a gift, and...