Browse Recent Articles

2012

May

Help, My Dog Bites! How to Deal with Dogs Who Bite

May 21st, 2012 – If your dog bites or has bitten someone in the past, it is important to work with him so that it doesn't happen again. Here are some tips and tools for training dogs... Read More »

Running With Your Dog: How to Train Fido to Run at Your Side

May 18th, 2012 – Running with your dog is a great way for both of you to get exercises. Here is one way to train your dog to run at your side, rather than pulling you around by his... Read More »

Jonesy Conquers a Pine Tree!

May 16th, 2012 – Why would a pine tree be dangerous? Jonesy demonstrates the dangers of pine cones. Read More »

Training a Dog to Love Eye Drops: Will This Also Train The Dog to Chew Medication Bottles?

May 8th, 2012 – Part of the recommended process of training a dog to love eye drops is to have the dog lick treats off the eyedrop bottle. Will this then teach the dog to chew on... Read More »

Medical Conditions in Aging Pets

May 4th, 2012 – Dogs and cats can develop many medical conditions as they get older. Here are a few symptoms to be on the look out for. Read More »

Help! My Vet is Scaring My Dog!

May 2nd, 2012 – Some veterinarians aren't aware when a dog's body language indicates they are fearful. Here are some steps to take to encourage your vet to interact properly with your... Read More »

April

Clicker Training Horses: Can It Be Done?

Apr 27th, 2012 – Can you really clicker train a horse? For decades, dolphin and killer whale trainers have been using a variation on positive reinforcement called clicker training. In... Read More »

The Loss of a Pet: Resources to Help You Grieve

Apr 24th, 2012 – To some people, the loss of a pet or even the decision to euthanize seems just another complication of day-to-day life. To others, the loss of an animal companion can... Read More »

Scrub Jay vs. Dog: Who is Smarter?

Apr 20th, 2012 – Who is smarter? A scrub jay or a dog? The answer may surprise you. Read here about research done with scrub jays that proves just how intelligent they really are. Read More »

My Dog is Fearful of Strangers: Tethering Dogs in Front of Stores

Apr 17th, 2012 – Do you ever tether your dog outside a store while you run in for a minute? Here is why it might not be a good idea for all dogs. Read More »

Medical Issues in Pets May Cause Behavior Problems

Apr 13th, 2012 – Some behavior problems in pets may be related to a hidden medical issue. Read More »

Dog Training Classes Can and Should Be More than Sit, Stay, Stand

Apr 6th, 2012 – Dog training classes can and should be more than sit, stay, stand. From focusing on their owner to controlling impulse control, our global approach allows the... Read More »

Jonesy Declares Pampering Pickle One of his Favorite Stores

Apr 6th, 2012 – Pampering Pickle Goodies and Gifts for Dogs is located in Placerville, CA, and is more than just a store. Owner, Theresa Corley, focuses more on education than mere... Read More »

Marian (Breland) Bailey Interprets Misbehavior of Organisms

Apr 3rd, 2012 – In their experiences training up to 1000 animals on a given day, the Brelands came upon some unexpected findings which they published in their landmark paper, The... Read More »

March

How Do I Train My Dog to Stop Chasing the Chickens, Cat, Rat…And Our Other Pets?

Mar 29th, 2012 – How do I train my dog to stop chasing the chickens? It is all about teaching your dog an alternate, more appropriate behavior. Read more here. Read More »

Which Category of Operant Conditioning is It?

Mar 27th, 2012 – It seems like almost everyone is familiar with some of the categories of operant conditioning; however, most people aren’t fluent enough to necessarily get the... Read More »

Heavenly Greens Synthetic Turf: Making Life with Dogs That Much Easier

Mar 23rd, 2012 – Heavenly Greens synthetic turf makes it easy to clean up after dogs, plus is always photo and video-ready. Here is the step by step installation process. Read More »

Become More Exciting Than a Squirrel: Teaching a Reliable Come When Called

Mar 16th, 2012 – Does your dog have a reliable come when called? Find out here the steps to train your dog to race to you whenever you call him! Read More »

Keller and Marian Breland Create the Field of Applied Animal Psychology

Mar 14th, 2012 – Animal Behavior Enterprises, founded by Keller and Marian Breland, created the field of applied animal psychology. Here is their first landmark paper. Read More »

Learn to Earn Program - Frequently Asked Questions

Mar 14th, 2012 – Here are answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding Dr. Yin's version of the Learn to Earn program. Read More »

Regular Leash vs. Hands-free Waist Leash: Which is Safer When Your Dog Pulls?

Mar 5th, 2012 – Which is safer when your dog pulls: a regular leash or a hands-free waist leash? Find out here! Read More »

February

Dante Meows Too Much: How I Stopped the Incessant Meowing

Feb 29th, 2012 – Some cats, like Bengals, like to meow incessantly. Here's one way to stop the constant noise and train quiet behavior instead. Read More »

Gentle Leader Head Collar: Reinforcement or Punishment?

Feb 24th, 2012 – What category of operant conditioning does the Gentle Leader head collar fall under? Find out why it is important to be able to distinguish the difference between... Read More »

Which Types of Collars and Harnesses are Safe for Your Dog?

Feb 20th, 2012 – Which types of collars and harnesses are safe for your dog? Here is a summary of the pros and cons of some of the various collars and harnesses for dogs. Read More »

The Learn to Earn Program: Implementing the Program

Feb 15th, 2012 – Here are the first steps to implement Dr. Yin's version of the Learn to Earn Program, which teaches humans the leadership skills they will need, as well as teaching... Read More »

The Learn to Earn Program: Developing Leadership in Humans and Impulse Control in Dogs

Feb 6th, 2012 – Dr. Yin's version of the Learn to Earn Program teaches humans the leadership skills they will need, as well as teaching impulse control in dogs. From excessive barking... Read More »

Free Downloads: Posters, Handouts, and More!

Feb 1st, 2012 – All of the free downloads from drsophiayin.com, in one convenient location. Read More »

January

New Puppy Owners Apply Training Principles to Teach New Behaviors

Jan 10th, 2012 – Once people understand training principles, they can apply them to many different situations. Read how one puppy owner applied one technique to track her puppy's... Read More »

MannersMinder (Treat & Train) Helps Solve Resource Guarding with Other Dogs

Jan 6th, 2012 – The MannersMinder (Treat & Train) can be used to help in multiple dog households. In this case, one owner used it to help fix her dog's resource guarding. Read More »

2011

December

Dog Product Review: Jonesy’s Favorite Things!

Dec 24th, 2011 – A lot of new dog products come out each year. Here are some of Jonesy's favorite things of 2011! Read More »

Cat Injections: Training Your Cat to Love Injections Without Ruining Your Relationship

Dec 20th, 2011 – Is it difficult to give your cat injections? Do you worry that ensuring your cat gets proper veterinary care will ruined your relationship? Learn how to train your... Read More »

Learn to Earn Scavenger Hunt: Super Fun Dog Class Game for Training Dogs Self Control

Dec 5th, 2011 – The Learn to Earn program is designed to teach dogs self control and train humans how to be consistent and gain leadership. In this dog class game, clients had a... Read More »

November

Behind the Scenes: Student Behavior Session with Dr Yin

Nov 27th, 2011 – A behind the scenes look at a behavior session for staff and volunteers. Here, we worked on training cats! Read More »

Dog Class Games: A Fun Learn to Earn Scavenger Hunt!

Nov 19th, 2011 – Dog class games make learning much more fun for both dogs and their people! Here are some of the missions our students will have to complete on our Learn to Earn... Read More »

October

Training a Cat to Be Quiet: My Cat Meows Too Much, What Do I Do?

Oct 22nd, 2011 – Training a cat to be quiet is as simple as rewarding quiet behavior and removing the reward for meowing. Here's how to stop the incessant meowing. Read More »

September

World Rabies Day: How Vaccinations Can Stop Epidemics

Sep 26th, 2011 – September 28th is World Rabies Day. Third world countries, like Bali, are examples of why it is important to vaccinate your pets. Read More »

Puppy Socialization: Stop Fear Before it Starts

Sep 9th, 2011 – Puppy socialization is a critical part of a dog's development. Its important for puppies to have good experiences with as many different people, animals, objects, and... Read More »

Dr Yin’s Top 10 Dog Training Tips

Sep 2nd, 2011 – Have you gone to a dog training class or lesson and left with your head swimming? Find Dr Yin's Top 10 Dog Training Tips here. Read More »

August

Attention Men: Even Among Salmon, Polite, Gentle Males Get More Sex

Aug 25th, 2011 – What message can salmon give us about the importance of being nice? One study shows, that being big and strong and bossing others around isn’t always the best... Read More »

Preventing Dog Bites: Stop Dog Aggression Before It Starts

Aug 14th, 2011 – When dogs bite, it is rarely out of the blue. Signs usually show up long before the first bite occurs. Read this article to find out how to stop dog aggression before... Read More »

Dog Sports: A Weave Pole Problem Can Be a Sign of a Shoulder Injury

Aug 10th, 2011 – Dogs who play in dog sports are more likely to get hurt. Find out one way to tell if your dog has an injury, just by observing their gait. Read More »

Outfox® Field Guard: How to Enjoy Summer Without the Fear of Foxtails

Aug 7th, 2011 – Foxtails are a dangerous threat to dogs in California that like to go hiking. The Outfox® Field Guard is one way to protect your dog from these pesky weeds. Read More »

How to Greet a Dog Ebook: Free Download for One Week Only!

Aug 7th, 2011 – Learn how to greet a dog appropriately, and what to avoid, with this ebook. Read More »

July

Cat Meows Vary By Situation. Can You Identify Different Meows?

Jul 31st, 2011 – Cat meows vary in pitch and duration, depending on the situation. Find out what researchers discovered about how well people can identify different cat meows. Read More »

People Seem Slow to Learn New Tricks

Jul 27th, 2011 – A study shows that people are slow to learn new tricks when it comes to interacting with their dogs. Find out one real life scenario where repeating cues... Read More »

Is This REALLY Funny? Dog Attacking Its Own Foot

Jul 24th, 2011 – A video that has gone viral on the web brings up concerns for veterinarians. Should people really be laughing at the video of the dog attacking its own foot? Read More »

What’s the Benefit to the Dog? What to Consider Before Getting a Dog

Jul 20th, 2011 – Before getting a dog, its important to consider how the dog will benefit from the relationship and to choose the right dog for your lifestyle. Read More »

Kids and Dogs: How Kids Should and Should Not Interact with Dogs

Jul 18th, 2011 – Can kids and dogs live peacefully together? Find out how kids should and should not interact with dogs in order to help keep everyone safe and happy. Read More »

How to Teach a Cat to Use a Cat Door

Jul 17th, 2011 – Have you tried to teach a cat to use a cat door? Here is one simple way to train your kitty to go through the door. Read More »

Why Its Risky to Have Wild Animals as Pets

Jul 15th, 2011 – Why are wild animals dangerous to keep as pets? For one, they are not behaviorally adapted to living with humans. See what a 40 year study involving undomesticated... Read More »

Why Should You Vaccinate Against Parvovirus?

Jul 14th, 2011 – Parvovirus is a potentially fatal illness that can cause dogs to drop like flies. Since many people are now questioning the use of vaccinations, why is it important to... Read More »

Puppy Vaccinations: Why Puppies Need a Series of Shots

Jul 13th, 2011 – Why do puppies need a series of shots? The frequency of puppy vaccinations are based on their immune system. Read More »

Free Downloads from drsophiayin.com

Jul 12th, 2011 – All of the free downloads from drsophiayin.com, in one convenient location. Read More »

Perfect Puppy in 7 Days: Print Version Available for Preorder

Jul 10th, 2011 – Perfect Puppy in 7 Days: How to Start Your Puppy Off Right will soon be available in print. Preorder your book today! Read More »

Excessive Barking: Why Some Dogs Bark and How to Fix It

Jul 10th, 2011 – Excessive barking usually starts out as an occasional bark but builds up intensity over time. Find out why some dogs bark so much and what to do to fix it. Read More »

Cats Hunting Wildlife: Why It Is a Problem and What to do About It

Jul 6th, 2011 – A cat's hunting instinct can have a major impact on the local wildlife. So why do well fed house cats feel the need to hunt? Read More »

Dog Training Tip: Why Cigarettes are More Addicting than Heroin and How It Applies to Dog Training

Jul 4th, 2011 – Here's a dog training tip on how a high rate of reinforcement can improve your success as a trainer. Read More »

June

Scent Rolling: Why Do Dogs Like to Roll in Smelly Scents?

Jun 30th, 2011 – Scent rolling is common in dogs. So why do dogs like to roll in smelly scents? A study on wolves may shine some light on the subject. Read More »

How to Prevent Damage from a Destructive Dog

Jun 27th, 2011 – A destructive dog can be an expensive companion. Here's one way to curb your dog's costly habits. Read More »

Unwanted Guests in Your Yard? One Way to Keep Outdoor Cats and Dogs Off Your Property

Jun 23rd, 2011 – The Scarecrow animal deterrent system works to keep outdoor cats and dogs off your property. Read More »

Testicular Implants in Dogs Make Dr. Yin Wonder… Who’s Looking?

Jun 21st, 2011 – What looks like a jelly bean but feels like a gummie bear? No it's not something edible. It's a testicular implant for dogs. Read More »

Cloning Cats: Rainbow and CC Prove That Cloning Won’t Resurrect Your Pet

Jun 21st, 2011 – Cloning cats may seem like the perfect solution to bring back your beloved pet. However, Rainbow and her genetically-identical daughter, CC, prove that cloning won't... Read More »

A Dog with Diabetes: Drinking Too Much Water May Be a Sign of Trouble

Jun 17th, 2011 – A dog with diabetes presents with all the classic symptoms after the dog's observant owner picked up on the fact that something wasn't right. Read More »

Meowing Cats and Barking Dogs: Why Are Some Pets So Vocal?

Jun 13th, 2011 – Constantly meowing cats and barking dogs can get on their owners' nerves. Here's how to train those vocal pets to quiet down. Read More »

June is Adopt a Cat Month: Training Your New Cat to Stop Scratching Furniture

Jun 10th, 2011 – June is Adopt a Cat Month! Most people's biggest fear when it comes to getting a new cat is what to do if the cat starts to scratch their furniture. Read More »

FACEBOOK CONTEST: Low Stress Handling Book (and DVD) and How to Greet a Dog ebook

Jun 5th, 2011 – Encourage your friends to “Like” our Facebook fanpage and join our mailing list. Once we reach 5000 fans on Facebook, 5 people will receive free Low Stress... Read More »

Kitten Socialization

Jun 4th, 2011 – Why is kitten socialization important? Every year, thousands of stray kittens are fostered and adopted out. The foster caretakers do their best to address the... Read More »

Compassionate Vet Care: Handling Pets in a Pet Friendly Manner

Jun 2nd, 2011 – Petcare professionals got into the profession because they love animals. But to truly provide compassionate vet care you have to start handling pets in a pet friendly... Read More »

May

Secret to Dog Training

May 29th, 2011 – The secret to dog training is straightforward—reward desired behavior and remove rewards for unwanted behavior. Dr. Yin provides examples and explains the nuances... Read More »

Win a Free Nerdbook!

May 24th, 2011 – Enter to win a free copy of "The Small Animal Veterinary Nerdbook" Read More »

Free Dog Bite Prevention Week Resources

May 20th, 2011 – In honor of National Dog Bite Prevention Week, Dr. Sophia Yin presents some unique educational resources including an animated PSA and canine body language poster. Read More »

Preventing Dog Bites by Learning to Greet Dogs Properly

May 17th, 2011 – Preventing dogs bites can be as simple as learning to greet dogs correctly. Dr. Sophia Yin presents 8 tips for approaching, greeting, and interacting with dogs safely. Read More »

Dog Bite Prevention Week: Poster on the Body Language of Fear and Aggression

May 15th, 2011 – Download a free poster: Recognizing the body language of fear and anxiety in dogs. Read More »

Dog Bite Prevention: Dogs Bite When Humans Greet Inappropriately

May 13th, 2011 – Two of the most important steps in dog bite prevention are for humans to learn how to greet dogs correctly and to read dog body language so they know when to leave a... Read More »

Neutered Male Dogs Can Still Have Sex

May 9th, 2011 – Can neutered male dogs still have sex? As a veterinarian, I regularly recommend that intact dogs be neutered, for one, as a means of population control. It’s a... Read More »

Pokey Dog Lags on Leash

May 4th, 2011 – Does your dog lag on leash? Q) I have a three year old male, neutered Shih Tzu named Pocky. My problem is that while other dogs drag their owners on walks, I have to... Read More »

April

Scooting Dog Draws a Crowd

Apr 28th, 2011 – Question about a scooting dog: I have a 7-year old Cocker Spaniel mix who has this annoying habit. I’m wondering if there’s really a way of training her out of it.... Read More »

Manners Minder Use During Rehabilitation

Apr 23rd, 2011 – The Manners Minder/Treat&Train has many useful applications. Canine rehabilitation specialist, Sarah Johnson, of Fit Dogs, used the Manners Minder after her Border... Read More »

Vegetarian Cat?

Apr 20th, 2011 – Can cats be vegetarians? Several owners have asked me, “I’m a vegetarian and a cat lover. Are there vegetarian diets I can buy or make for my cat?" Read More »

The Father’s Day Gift: A Cattle Dog Puppy!

Apr 13th, 2011 – Dr. Yin recounts how she trained her father’s Australian Cattle Dog puppy to behave perfectly in just seven days, using the Learn to Earn Program. Read More »

Win a Free MannersMinder (A.K.A. Treat & Train)

Apr 5th, 2011 – Win a MannersMinder (Treat & Train), or a Low Stress Handling, Restraint and Behavior Mod of Dogs & Cats Book and DVD. Just submit a video testimonial! Read More »

March

Win a Low Stress Handling book and DVD

Mar 22nd, 2011 – Contest Announcement. Win a free copy of Low Stress Handling, Restraint and Behavior Modification of Dogs & Cat book and DVD. Read More »

Jonesy the Jack Russell Terrier Goes for a Run

Mar 19th, 2011 – A Jack Russell Terrier goes for a run as a warm-up for keeping even busier. He explains how high energy can be combined with good manners. Read More »

Jonesy the Jack Russell Terrier: My New Facebook Fanpage. It’s All About Me!

Mar 18th, 2011 – Jonesy the famous Jack Russell Terrier has a Facebook Fanpage. He loves to run, jump, and karate kick, and hates dogs who get in his face. Read More »

Tips on Surviving a Dog Attack

Mar 8th, 2011 – When a dog attacks, what do you do? Keep yourself safe from dog bites by staying calm and cool. Read More »

Obese Dogs Drive Dr. Yin to Contemplate Opening a Doggie Fat Farm

Mar 4th, 2011 – Dr. Yin sees so many obese dogs that she wants to open a canine fat farm. She explains how to put a portly pooch on a diet and exercise plan. Read More »

February

Play Dead or Bang: A dog trick that’s both fun and can train calm behavior

Feb 24th, 2011 – Lie on your side, play dead, and put your head down are calm dog tricks that are fun to teach and will help your dog maintain self control. Read More »

Litter Box Problems Could Be Due to Physical Ailment

Feb 17th, 2011 – If your cat is defecating outside the litter box, the problem might be medical. A veterinary exam will tell you if kitty just can’t help herself. Read More »

Animal Behavior Research: Is this study Blind or Double Blind?

Feb 9th, 2011 – Double blind studies are tough to do in animal behavior research. Dr. Yin explains what they are and how study designs vary. Read More »

January

What to Do When Your Cat Poops Outside the Box

Jan 31st, 2011 – While most cats are fastidious about eliminating in their litter box, many will poop outside the box some time during their life. Read More »

How to Safely Sleep With Your Pet

Jan 25th, 2011 – Be safe when sleeping with your pet by keeping him parasite-free, clean, and healthy, so you can avoid zoonotic diseases that pass from your pet to you. Read More »

Are Shock Collars Painful or Just Annoying to Dogs? A 2004 Study Reveals Some Answers

Jan 24th, 2011 – Are shocks collars painful? A study finds they are, that shocked dogs are more fearful and anxious, and that fear carries over into non-training situations. Read More »

Six Cold Weather Safety Tips for Dogs and Cats

Jan 19th, 2011 – Keep your dogs and cats safe in cold weather by keeping them warm and away from salt and other toxins. Read More »

Cold Weather Safety for Dogs: Insights from a Sled Dog Veterinarian

Jan 18th, 2011 – A sled dog veterinarian explains what cold-weather breeds need to thrive in extreme conditions. Read More »

Shock Collar or Leash When Exercising Dogs on Town Streets

Jan 17th, 2011 – Does a shock collar provide the same control as a leash when exercising a dog around town? It depends on the dog and the owner; a lot can go wrong. Read More »

Tips for Dealing with Urine Spraying in Cats

Jan 15th, 2011 – Urine spraying in cats can be caused by stress, outdoor cats, litter box hygiene issues, or feline spats. It can almost always be treated. Read More »

Fighting Cats Leave Family Frazzled

Jan 11th, 2011 – Everyone’s stressed when cats are fighting. Learn how to keep a truce and actually train them to like each other. Read More »

Get Fit with Your Dog: My New Year’s Day Dog-Human Exercise Workout

Jan 2nd, 2011 – To get fit with your dog, combine your workout with exercises that reinforce your dog's training and challenge your dog physically and mentally. Read More »