Dr. Yin's Animal Behavior and Medicine Blog
Tag: Dogs
Can Spaying Lead to Bad Behavior?
Mar 5th, 2009 – Can spaying lead to bad behavior? Female dogs who are already aggressive may become more reactive after spaying. A modified spay may be the answer. Read More »
Mar 5th, 2009 – Heard stories of pets predicting earthquakes? Actually, scientists have studied the question. It turns out, they sometimes can, but usually can’t. Read More »
New Study Finds Popular “Alpha Dog” Training Techniques Can Cause More Harm than Good
Mar 9th, 2009 – One study examines the alpha dog training model and finds it dangerous. Results show that, if you're aggressive to your dog, your dog may become fearful and aggressive... Read More »
Does Your Humping Dog Make Your Face Turn Red?
Mar 16th, 2009 – A humping dog can be embarrassing, but it doesn’t mean your dog is dominant. More likely, he's socially inept. Read tips on how to put an end to this... Read More »
Book Review: For the Love of a Dog: Understanding Emotion in You and Your Best Friend By Patricia B
Mar 18th, 2009 – For the Love of a Dog by Patricia McConnell uses sound research to help us understand emotions in our dogs. Her book is informative and heartwarming. Read More »
Dog Eats Chocolate: Case of Chico and Cadbury Chocolates
Apr 5th, 2009 – When a dog eats chocolate, it can be fatal. Just ask Chico the fox terrier who ended up having to visit the hospital on Easter. Read More »
Having a Dog in White House Can Be as Complicated as Foreign Policy
Apr 13th, 2009 – It's not easy having a new dog in the White House. The presidential pooch must be well-behaved but with so many people present, the training is more likely to be... Read More »
A Foolproof Plan for Potty Training Puppies
Apr 24th, 2009 – Dr. Yin provides a foolproof plan for potty training puppies to understand outside is the right place and inside is off bounds. Read More »
Students and Veterinarians Learn Low Stress Veterinary Handling
Apr 27th, 2009 – At Dr. Yin’s Low Stress Veterinary Handling workshop, participants learn how to handle dogs and cats safely and comfortably (for them and the pets). Read More »
Puppy Play Biting Leads to Marks on Hands and Arms
May 13th, 2009 – Solve puppy play biting problems quickly and easily. Learn how to remove the reward for play biting and how to reward more appropriate replacement behaviors instead. Read More »
Keeping Flea Products Straight
May 15th, 2009 – Dr. Yin explains the many flea products available, how they work, their safety for dogs and cats, and which ones also kill ticks and heartworms. Read More »
Experts Say Dominance-Based Dog Training Techniques Made Popular By TV Can Contribute to Bites
May 17th, 2009 – Studies show dominance based dog training can spark fear aggression leading to increased bites. Alternative non-confrontational techniques provide a safer, effective... Read More »
May 18th, 2009 – These 7 tips for animal care professionals prevent dog bites and reduce stress and discomfort faced by dogs during vet visits, grooming, and handling. Read More »
May 24th, 2009 – Joggers avoid dogs because dogs frequently like to run after or chase them. Dr. Yin provides tips for joggers as well as for owners of dogs who lunge at runners. Read More »
May 25th, 2009 – When a puppy potties in his playpen there may be several causes—such as the size of the pen, the type of surfaces, and puppies potty schedule. Read More »
May 30th, 2009 – If you're traveling with pets, here are some important tips that will help your trip go smoothly and ensure that Fido and Kitty are having fun rather than being a... Read More »
Puppy Whining: Driving Owners Crazy
May 30th, 2009 – A puppy whining in her crate can drive her owner crazy. It's important to train her immediately that only calm, quiet behaviors give her access to you. Read More »
Dog Bite Prevention: How Kids and Adults Should Greet Dogs Safely
Jun 4th, 2009 – One key to dog bite prevention is that everyone should learn how to greet and interact appropriately with dogs, and recognize when dogs do not want to be greeted. Read More »
Startled Australian Cattle Dog Chases Bikes
Jun 6th, 2009 – When a dog chases bikes, accidents are sure to follow. Luckily the solution is to simply train her to focus on you, even with distractions, and then reliably come when... Read More »
Handling Dominance Aggression in Dogs
Jun 10th, 2009 – Dominance aggression in dogs is rare but it does occur. Find out how to reverse your roles without using force, coercion or aggression. Instead start by training Rover... Read More »
A Super Simple Method for Training Dog Tricks
Jun 16th, 2009 – Training dog tricks is easier than it looks when you know how to use the right sized treats, reward with correct timing, and shape behaviors in little steps. Read More »
Jun 18th, 2009 – Step-by-step instructions for teaching 3 cool dog tricks that will also help train your canine to be calm are provided. Read More »
Can Hand Rearing Your Puppy Lead to Dog Aggression?
Jul 4th, 2009 – Dogs and other animals that are hand-reared may have self-control issues since most humans aren't as good at setting limits for puppy behavior as the pup's mom and... Read More »
Perfect Puppy in 7 Days: It All Started with the Father’s Day Gift
Aug 7th, 2009 – In the summer of 2009 I had to train my dad’s new puppy in a week. Find out how I got the perfect puppy in 7 days and how it led to a book. Read More »
Aug 10th, 2009 – Can anyone train a dog? Yes, with good instruction and careful practice. Training is a technical skill that requires good timing and an awareness of how you move so you... Read More »
What to Do When Your Dog Eats Poop
Aug 28th, 2009 – A dog who eats poop is demonstrating how early domesticated dogs survived by scavenging. Prevent poop eating by cleaning up the “snacks” ASAP. Read More »
Breed Ban or Better Pet Selection?
Sep 5th, 2009 – Breed bans are not the solution to badly behaved pets. The answer is to choose a pet that matches your expectations and abilities. Read More »
Turn Fido into a Skateboarding Dog
Sep 6th, 2009 – It's easy to turn your pooch into a skateboarding dog in just a couple of training sessions when you know the steps. Even better, the individual steps can be used in... Read More »
What To Do When Your Puppy Potty Training Plan Fails
Sep 11th, 2009 – Puppy potty training can be challenging, but Dr. Yin offers tips for those dogs need more than just the standard protocol. Read More »
Jonesy’s Dog Agility Class Sept 11 2009
Sep 11th, 2009 – In dog agility class, Jonesy learns to love the teeter because he gets rewarded from the MannersMinder, or Treat&Train, at the end. Read More »
My Dad meets His Father’s Day Gift: An Australian Cattle Dog Puppy
Sep 14th, 2009 – Dr. Yin delivers an Australian Cattle Dog puppy, Lucy to her dad after having trained the puppy for a week. It's the first time Lucy's met her dad. See how the first... Read More »
Dominance in Dogs is Not a Personality Trait
Sep 15th, 2009 – The area of dominance in dogs is fraught with misconceptions but the science has been worked out. As a result, it's now clear that dominance is a relationship, not a... Read More »
Onions and Dogs: A Lethal Combination
Sep 17th, 2009 – Onions and dogs can be a deadly combo. Dr. Yin takes you through the signs and treatments as she recounts the time during veterinary school when her dog ate a bag of... Read More »
Getting the Most Out of Your Veterinary Visit
Sep 24th, 2009 – Veterinary visits can be confusing and expensive. But no vet can wave a magic wand to diagnose and cure your pet. Rather it's a step-wise process. Read More »
Sep 27th, 2009 – Dogs in Indonesia are not liked by the Muslim population, but cats are highly regarded. Injuring a cat, even accidentally, is considered bad luck. Read More »
Bali Provides a Glimpse of How Dogs Evolved Alongside Man
Oct 1st, 2009 – Stray dogs in Bali offer a model for how dogs evolved alongside human settlements. This self-domestication is evident in village dogs today. Read More »
Dogs in Bali Learn Some Dog Tricks
Oct 3rd, 2009 – Dr. Yin trains a village dog in Bali, and is reminded that dogs worldwide like you if they associate you with good things. Read More »
Treatment of Food Aggression in Dogs is About Finesse, Not Force
Oct 18th, 2009 – People commonly try to deal with food aggression in dogs by showing the dog who's boss, but a safer, more reliable method is to use finesse. Train the dog to associate... Read More »
Dogs Detect Cluster Headaches in Human
Oct 25th, 2009 – Some dogs can detect cluster headaches as well as other medical maladies in humans. What types of dogs can do this and why? To find out, read more. Read More »
Dogs and Babies: Can They be Safe in the Same Household?
Nov 5th, 2009 – Dogs and babies seem like a perfect match, but given that there are nearly 1 million serious dog bites a year and the most serious injuries are to kids, it's important... Read More »
Nov 7th, 2009 – When conflict and aggression arise between dogs and kids, the problem is not always the dog. Frequently the child is allowed to interact with the dog in harrassing or... Read More »
What to do When Your Puppy Whines at Night
Nov 9th, 2009 – For a puppy who whines all night in her crate, teach her that remaining calm is what gives her access to you. It's important that she learn this right away or she may... Read More »
Pet Holiday Hazards that Can Ambush Your Furry Friend
Nov 11th, 2009 – When Thanksgiving and Christmas come around, it's important to be aware of all of the pet holiday hazards. From toxic plants, to tinsel, to taboo foods, make sure you... Read More »
How Puppy Class Nearly Ruined My Dad’s New Pup
Nov 22nd, 2009 – All puppies should participate in puppy class, but for Dr. Yin's parent's dog Lucy, the puppy class she went to was a poor match. In two classes she learns to be overly... Read More »
Fall Dog Class Fieldtrip a Success
Nov 22nd, 2009 – Dr. Yin takes her dog training class on a field trip to practice the skills they have learned in class out in the real world, with real-life distractions. Read More »
Dr. Yin’s Answers to Common Dog Training Questions
Dec 1st, 2009 – Dr. Yin answers the most common dog training questions—and questions about training cats, horses, and birds, too. Read More »
Pets Sleep Together: Are They Pals?
Dec 9th, 2009 – If your pets sleep together, does that mean they get along so well that they should never fight? Dr. Yin provides a clear perspective on what sleeping together really... Read More »
Finding the Perfect Dog Treats
Jan 1st, 2010 – Finding the perfect dog treats is simple and cheap. Choose something that's irresistible, easily broken into variably sized pieces, and soft so that dogs can also... Read More »
Training Multiple Dogs to Sit Politely to Go Out
Jan 2nd, 2010 – Training multiple dogs to sit politely to go out the door can seem impossible, especially when one dog is slow. But Dr. Yin provides a sure fire solution that will lead... Read More »
Jan 7th, 2010 – Among the 101 things you can go with a box is practice free shaping. Dr. Yin offers tips on how to raise the criteria in shaping a skill. Read More »
Apr 14th, 2010 – Jonesy the Jack Russell Terrier demonstrates the tricks dogs will be learning at Dr. Yin’s Circus School for Dogs. Read More »
Training Dog Tricks: Circus School for Dogs Recap
Apr 27th, 2010 – Training dog tricks is quick and fun at Dr. Yin’s Circus School for Dogs. Complex behaviors are shaped in little steps that even beginner dogs can learn. Read More »
Teaching Your Dog to “Come When Called”
Jul 10th, 2010 – Teaching your dog to "come when called" reliably is easier than you think. Focus on making it a game that’s more fun than any other temptation, and never give Rover a... Read More »
Dog Potties in the House: Is My Male Shih Tzu Just Being a S&*#
Aug 16th, 2010 – When a dog potties in the house, it's time to go back to potty training basics. He has to learn that not only is it good to potty outside but that indoors is off... Read More »
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Low Stress Dog Restraint: Standing to Lateral
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Funny Dog Tricks: Jack Russell Terrier Karate Kicks
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Dog Gets Kleenex: Jonesy Says Gesundheit
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Shaping Behaviors: Teach Your Dog to Somersault
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Manners Minder: Train Good Behavior at the Door
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Dog Nail Trim: Training a Dog to Enjoy Toenail Trims
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Food Aggression: Ben Guards the Food Bowl
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Aggressive Behavior in Dogs: Mollie’s Bad With Other Dogs
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Sit for Petting: Stellah Learns Self Control
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
What Do Dogs Do All Day When Humans Are Away
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Loose Leash Walking: Peggy Walks Nicely on Leash
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Training Dogs to Sit: Say Please Part II
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Training Sit: Say Please and Suddenly Settle Demo
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Training Dogs to Sit: Say Please By Sitting
Aug 23rd, 2010 – Read More »
Calaveras Man Killed by Pitbulls: A Lesson about Pitbulls or About What Not to Do with Dogs?
Aug 25th, 2010 – Man killed by Pitbulls. What's the lesson? That if any dog barks and lunges at people or animals and you can't get him focused back on you, seek help because he could... Read More »
Piddling Pooches: Excited Urination in Dogs
Aug 30th, 2010 – Control excited urination in dogs by teaching them a new greeting routine that teaches them to remain calm but still happy. Read More »
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Dog Jumps Through Hoop: Part 2
Sep 1st, 2010 – After Dr. Yin teaches a dog to jump through a hoop, it’s an easy transition to making the hoop with her arms and having the dog sail through. Read More »
Dog Jumps Through Hoop: Part 1
Sep 2nd, 2010 – Dr. Yin teaches a dog to jump through a hoop by making the trick fun and rewarding. In just two sessions, she’s jumping through the hoop. Read More »
Sep 16th, 2010 – For the dog park to be a safe place for all dogs to enjoy, the dogs need to have social skills and the humans need to supervise. Find out what's appropriate and... Read More »
Sep 21st, 2010 – Bat rabies is on the rise, and rabid bats have been found interacting with dogs. Keep your dog’s rabies vaccination up to date. Read More »
Low Stress Handling Lab in Chicago at Narnia Pet Behavior and Training
Oct 4th, 2010 – At a low stress handling lab in Chicago, attendees learned how to keep dogs comfortable and happy while at the veterinarian or the groomer. Read More »
Oct 12th, 2010 – If you've considered putting your pet on a raw food dog diet, read what board certified veterinarians recommend first. Read More »
Oct 31st, 2010 – It's essential that people learn how to greet a dog properly if they hope to avoid scaring dogs and avoid being bitten. Inappropriate greetings are a common reason... Read More »
Barking Dogs: Noise or Communication?
Nov 15th, 2010 – Barking dogs are not just barking randomly. Dr. Yin's research was the first to show that dog barks vary based on context, emotional state, and that individuals dogs... Read More »
Can Large and Small Dogs Play Together Safely?
Nov 19th, 2010 – Can large and small dogs can play together safely at the dog park? They can if everyone recognizes the signs of canine fear and stress and supervise their dogs so that... Read More »
Is Your Dog Smarter if he has a Bigger Brain?
Nov 23rd, 2010 – Is your dog smarter than your cat because his brain is bigger? It turns out that brain size is not a measure of intelligence and cats can learn many tricks as quickly... Read More »
Do Dogs Understand Pointing Gestures Better Than Young Kids?
Nov 26th, 2010 – A study looked at whether dogs understand pointing as well as children do. It found children perform better, but dogs get it when you point away from your body. Read More »
Dog Pointing Cue Test: Two Jack Russell Terriers Flunk But Scottie Passes with Flying Colors
Nov 29th, 2010 – A research study found dogs can understand human pointing cues to infer the location of food. Dr Yin performed the dog pointing cue test on 2 JRTs who flunk the test... Read More »
Day 1 of Training Match to Sample
Dec 6th, 2010 – In the Training Match to Sample Game, Dr. Yin starts by teaching Jonesy to fetch a toy she taps. His mediocre results reveal a lot about his learning patterns. Read More »
Bad Dog Breath: Dogs’ Breath Can Be Worse Than Their Bite
Dec 9th, 2010 – Bad dog breath is often a sign of serious dental disease. A thorough cleaning under anesthesia can sweeten your pet's breath. Read More »
Smooch Your Pooch: A Cute Children’s Book with Unsafe Suggestions
Dec 13th, 2010 – Smooch Your Pooch is a cute kids’ book but it's filled with unsafe suggestions that can cause children to be bitten. Read More »
What to Do if Your Dog Raids the Litter Box
Dec 21st, 2010 – When a dog raids the litter box, there are many simple solutions, some inexpensive and others more elaborate. Read More »
Best Holiday Wishes from Dr Yin
Dec 24th, 2010 – Dr. Yin says don’t forget to keep your pets safe during the busy holiday season. 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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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