Articles

  • The Sit-stay: danger in focusing only on Outward Behavior

    The Sit-stay: danger in focusing only on Outward Behavior

    Some trainers have said it doesn’t matter what the dog is feeling, it only matters that they behave. This can be reassuring for dog owners because understanding the inner workings of our canine companions can often feel like a labyrinth complete mystery. But focusing solely on a dog’s outward behavior without considering their internal state…

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  • Why Reactivity is Often a Warning Sign for Aggressive Behavior in Dogs

    Why Reactivity is Often a Warning Sign for Aggressive Behavior in Dogs

    If you are learning about dog aggression, you could be forgiven for thinking reactivity is the same as aggression. It seems like the terms are often interchanged. However, there are differences: reactivity in dogs refers to an overreaction to a stimulus, such as another dog, a person, noise or even touch. On the other hand,…

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  • L-Theanine for Dogs: Anti-anxiety effects

    L-Theanine for Dogs: Anti-anxiety effects

    There is limited research on the use of L-theanine specifically for dogs with behavior problems, but some studies suggest that it may have potential benefits for reducing anxiety and improving behavior. L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that has been studied for its calming effects on the brain. It is thought to…

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  • Buying a Dog DNA Test – What to Know

    Buying a Dog DNA Test – What to Know

    (Updated Mar 2023.) DNA testing for dogs has now been around for more than a decade. The first DNA tests for dogs for veterinarians was developed in 2007, with the first Direct-to-consumer DNA tests for dogs coming on to market since 2009. If you’re considering buying a dog DNA test, here are some things you…

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  • Relationship Between Serotonin and Dog Aggression

    Relationship Between Serotonin and Dog Aggression

    Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in regulating mood, behavior, and emotions, including aggression. In dogs, low levels of serotonin have been associated with increased aggression and other behavior problems.(1, 2, 3) Studies have shown that dogs with a history of aggression have lower levels of serotonin in their brains compared to…

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  • L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP

    L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP

    L-tryptophan and 5-HTP are both amino acids that are involved in the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the body. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and other bodily functions. In dogs, low levels of serotonin have been associated with increased aggression and other behavior problems. Both…

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  • Chamomile for Dogs: Anti-anxiety effects

    Chamomile for Dogs: Anti-anxiety effects

    Chamomile is a natural supplement that is sometimes used to help manage anxiety in dogs, although there is limited research on its effectiveness in this regard. Chamomile is believed to have anti-anxiety effects due to its ability to increase levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which help regulate mood and emotions. It…

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