This clip introduces learning history—the experiences that shape what the leash means to a dog. I outline how past corrections, rewards, and exposures influence whether the leash offers guidance or fuels frustration. The big takeaway: learning history matters because it reveals both why a dog reacts the way it does and where new training opportunities begin.

This 3‑minute clip explores arousal through the lens of trigger stacking—how multiple stressors pile up and push a dog past threshold. I show why it’s important to recognize whether your dog is in a “working brain zone” before stepping outside and demonstrate one practical way to build resilience by starting in safe spaces first. While there are many approaches to this work, I present one clear option here to make the concept easy to follow.

This clip highlights one presentation of a fearful dog—flattened to the ground, ears back, tail tucked—and walks through a specific set of handling options you can try in that situation. The example illustrates how leash pressure, opposition reflex, and handler choices can either add stress or create space. Fear can look many different ways, and there are many approaches to training; this clip offers one clear example to make the concepts practical and easy to see.

This clip looks at reactive dogs—those quick to startle, lunge, or posture without intent to harm—and highlights how handler choices can either escalate or ease those reactions. I walk through common mistakes like tightening the leash too early or pairing food only with triggers and show why staying below threshold and letting the dog lead engagement is key. Reactivity can take many forms, and there are multiple approaches to working with it; this clip offers one clear example to make the concept practical and easy to see.

This clip looks at aggressive dogs—those with intent to harm—and explains how their body language and leash behaviors can differ from anxious or reactive dogs. I highlight why introducing a clear “bailout” option matters, giving dogs a safe way to disengage. This clip offers one solid set of suggestions for a particular circumstance, rather than a universal recipe for all aggressive dogs.

This clip introduces the three starter rules for enrichment—free, cheap, and easy. I show how everyday items like boxes or veggie scraps can become enrichment tools, how simple choices keep cleanup low‑friction, and how layering food or toys into routines makes support effortless. A quick look at how small adjustments can make enrichment sustainable and effective.

This clip introduces how dogs process novelty—their way of meeting something unfamiliar, gathering information, and deciding what to do about it. I show how predictable patterns and supportive enrichment can make you more relevant during problem‑solving, guiding the dog toward resilience. The goal is to help them complete the loop: “that was new… I investigated… and I didn’t die.” A look at how structure turns novelty from overwhelming into workable learning.

Hands down my favorite enrichment resource is Pet Harmony, with Allie Bender and Emily Strong. Their book Canine Enrichment for the Real World has shaped much of my work, and I can’t recommend it strongly enough for both pet owners and professionals. They also host a fantastic podcast, and beyond their expertise, they’re simply good humans. Their zoo‑world perspective reframes dogs as captive animals with needs we can meet in tangible ways—an approach that consistently improves outcomes. I rarely say something applies to every dog, but enrichment does—and Pet Harmony explains why better than anyone.

This clip introduces management—the everyday tools we use to prevent problem behaviors. I define the concept and highlight the slip leash as our first tool, comparing locks vs. no locks, rope vs. biothane, and 4' vs. 6' lengths. A quick look at how small equipment choices can make management more effective.

This clip introduces muzzles as another key management option. I show examples of Baskerville, cloth, and wire muzzles, and walk through what to consider when using them with dogs showing dog‑vs‑dog or dog‑vs‑human aggression. The focus is on both the mechanics of the tool and the practical safety concerns that matter most in everyday life.

This clip introduces tethers as a practical management option. I cover what to consider when choosing materials for dogs who chew, why using two points of contact on walks can add safety, and how length and placement on the body affect what’s safe for each individual dog. A quick, focused look at how thoughtful tether choices can make everyday management more reliable.

This clip introduces the martingale collar as a safety option. I cover how to size it correctly, demonstrate the mechanics with James (my life‑sized stuffed dog), and show how it works on leash. You’ll also see tips for getting the collar on and off smoothly. A quick, practical look at how martingales can add security when fitted and used thoughtfully.

This clip looks at gates as a core management strategy. I introduce different types of gates and highlight key factors to weigh when deciding what might be the best fit for your home—such as whether it closes behind you, how high it anchors, and how it fits into daily routines. A short, practical overview to help you consider which gate could support safety in your setup.

This clip looks at crates as a management option. I introduce different types of crates, share simple training approaches to help dogs feel comfortable, and note important cautions—like being mindful about strangers approaching a dog while kenneled. A short, practical overview of how crates can support safety and structure when used thoughtfully.