Motivational States Matter
"Motivational states make our animals more or less likely to perform certain behaviors"
"But I Never Had to Give My Other Dog Treats!"
This is sometimes my client's response when I explain that we'll be using food as the primary motivator during our training. They're...
Be a Consequence Machine
A common misconception about dog training is that it’s all about the “commands”; you have to teach the commands, or else your dog won’t...
"When can I stop giving my dog treats?"
This is probably one of the top 3 questions I get asked as a dog trainer, and I totally get it! Having to remember to bring treats and...
Myth Busting Monday: "Positive reinforcement doesn't work for some dogs."
There are many variations of this myth: positive reinforcement doesn't work for "tough" breeds, positive reinforcement doesn't work for...
My name is Mary Thompson, I'm a positive dog trainer, and I said "no" today
I did it. It happened today. I was cooking something in the kitchen, and Phoebe threw herself at the door. She had just been out. I KNEW...