In this episode, we dive into the question: Does a dog owner's anxiety make their dog more anxious? We’ll explore how dogs pick up on their owner's stress and how that tension can create a feedback loop of anxiety. Tune in to learn practical tips for calming yourself and your dog, and discover how a relaxed approach can help build confidence and trust in your pet.

 To request my paper on coping techniques in these situations, please send me a message at usadogbehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

In this episode, Scott explores why punishing a dog for aggressive behavior often backfires, leading to increased aggression and long-term behavior issues. He explains the science behind why punishment doesn’t work and offers effective, humane strategies for addressing aggression in dogs that focus on building trust and communication. Perfect for dog owners and trainers seeking insights into managing challenging behaviors without resorting to harmful punishment.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

What if you could significantly reduce your dog's anxiety and aggression with just a little help from science? Find out how behavior medications, particularly anxiolytics, can be the game-changer you've been searching for.

In today's episode of the Grumpy Dogs podcast, I dive into the nuances of how these medications work, why they aren't a one-size-fits-all solution, and how they can play a crucial role in your dog's behavior modification journey.

You'll learn that these medications can provide about a 20% improvement, but the real magic happens with consistent behavior modification efforts. Tune in to discover how these tools can aid in desensitization and counter-conditioning exercises, helping your dog reveal its true personality by alleviating chronic anxiety.

As we wrap up the episode, don't forget to stay connected with the Grumpy Dogs community. Subscribe to keep yourself updated on future episodes and visit grumpydogspodcast.com for more information, to leave messages, and to follow us on social media.

View this Episode on YouTube:
Ep. 41 Do Behavior Medications Work for Fearful and Aggressive Dogs?

Episode Link(s):
Information about behavior medications:
1) American Kennel Club
2) PetMD

Facebook

Resources:
Scott Sheaffer's Free & Premium Training Videos
Scott Sheaffer's Dog Behavior Articles
Book an Online or In-Person Session with Scott

About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older. For more information about Scott, see USADogBehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

Does your dog seem to turn into a barking, lunging maniac the moment you clip on the leash and they see another dog?  This episode uncovers the mystery behind leash reactivity. We break down how fear often lies at the root of this frustrating behavior. You'll learn the science behind why dogs feel threatened when they can't establish their own safe distance and how being tethered to you can make matters worse.

In the second part, we shift gears to arm you with practical tips and strategies for managing your dog's reactivity. From subtle environmental adjustments to creating a more secure space for your dog.

Remember to visit grumpydogspodcast.com for more resources and join our growing community on social media. Don’t miss out—subscribe today and share the knowledge with fellow dog lovers!

View this Episode on YouTube:
Ep. 40 Why Your Dog is Aggressive to Dogs When On-Leash, but Not Off-Leash

Facebook

Resources:
Scott Sheaffer's Free & Premium Training Videos
Scott Sheaffer's Dog Behavior Articles
Book an Online or In-Person Session with Scott

About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older. For more information about Scott, see USADogBehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

Can dogs truly feel remorse after they bite someone, or is it just our interpretation of their behavior? Uncover the reality behind canine emotions as I address common myths about dogs and their reactions to biting incidents. I'll dive into the instinctual behaviors of dogs, shedding light on how they respond to stress and fear.

Join us for an eye-opening discussion on canine behavior that will change the way you understand your furry friends. I'll share findings from research on dog behavior and offers valuable resources, including a free 49-minute video on reading dog body language.

Whether you're a dog owner, trainer, or veterinary professional, this episode is packed with insights to help you better interpret your dog's stress signals and improve your approach to managing fear and aggression. Tune in and gain a deeper understanding of the true nature of your dog's emotions.

View this Episode on YouTube:
Ep. 39 Are Dogs Remorseful After Biting People?

Episode Link(s):
Understanding Dog Body Language

Facebook

Resources:
Scott Sheaffer's Free & Premium Training Videos
Scott Sheaffer's Dog Behavior Articles
Book an Online or In-Person Session with Scott

About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older. For more information about Scott, see USADogBehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

How do your properly socialize your fearful or aggressive dog and make them more calm and sociable with other dogs and humans? Find out in this episode of the Grumpy Dogs Podcast with me. We'll explore the critical techniques you need to master for properly socializing dogs with fear and aggression issues.

I break down common misconceptions and offer five essential pointers, including:

1) Recognizing dog body language
2) Picking low-stress environments
3) Respecting individual fears
4) Using positive reinforcement
5) Gradually increasing exposure to triggers

These steps will help you create a positive and comfortable experience for your dog around unfamiliar people and other dogs.

View this Episode on YouTube:
Ep. 38 Dog Socialization, Myths vs. Reality

Episode Link(s):
The Truth About Socializing Reactive or Aggressive Dogs at Home Depot
 Understanding Dog Body Language

Facebook

Resources:
Scott Sheaffer's Free & Premium Training Videos
Scott Sheaffer's Dog Behavior Articles
Book an Online or In-Person Session with Scott

About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older. For more information about Scott, see USADogBehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

This episode unravels the mystery behind what many term 'dominance aggression' in our canine companions. I'm going to tell you what 'dominance aggression' is, and, what it isn't in this episode. Join me as we navigate the misconceptions surrounding this issue and offer clarity.

View this Episode on YouTube:
Ep. 37 What is Dominance Aggression in Dogs?

Facebook

Resources:
Scott Sheaffer's Free & Premium Training Videos
Scott Sheaffer's Dog Behavior Articles
Book an Online or In-Person Session with Scott

About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older. For more information about Scott, see USADogBehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

Navigating the choppy waters of canine territorial aggression just got smoother. Our latest discussion zeroes in on the strategies needed to manage dogs with a keen sense of trepidation when it comes to visitors coming into their home.

You'll discover how to categorize these guests into three distinct camps, and we'll pay special attention to those 'level two' visitors who, with the right approach, could move from unfamiliar to trusted allies in your dog's eyes.

We'll also cover everything from leveraging a safe space and the benefits of a pre-entry stroll to the favorable non-interactive stance a visitor should maintain upon entering your domain.

View this Episode on YouTube:
Ep. 36: Managing Your Dog's Territorial Aggression at the Front Door, Part 2

Facebook

Resources:
Scott Sheaffer's Free & Premium Training Videos
Scott Sheaffer's Dog Behavior Articles
Book an Online or In-Person Session with Scott

About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older. For more information about Scott, see USADogBehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

Unlock the mystery behind your dog's sudden growls and watchful eyes when guests arrive. Our latest episode offers a deep dive into the realm of territorial aggression in dogs, and why your four-legged friend might be more on edge in the sanctity of your home than in the great outdoors.

Explore with us the trifecta of triggers that provoke this: the craving for security, the shock of unexpected visitors, and the perceived lack of escape routes. We don't just lay out the problem; we arm you with strategies. Discover how to modify your home environment, reducing your dog's stress and their need to stand guard against the world.

View this Episode on YouTube:
Ep. 35 Complete Video: Why Is Your Dog Aggressive at the Door? Territorial Fear, Part 1

Episode Link(s):
Basket Dog Muzzle
Window Film

Facebook

Resources:
Scott Sheaffer's Free & Premium Training Videos
Scott Sheaffer's Dog Behavior Articles
Book an Online or In-Person Session with Scott

About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older. For more information about Scott, see USADogBehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.

Are you navigating the challenges of a reactive dog? In this episode, we dissect the misunderstood concept of 'socialization' and reveal humane, controlled methods to help your reactive dog overcome their fears. I'll walk you through a technique that works outside the dog park fence, offering behavior modification opportunities while keeping your canine at a safe distance from their triggers.

I discuss an axiom of dog behavior when it comes to visual triggers and why walking your reactive dog outside the dog park could be a technique you've been searching for. By the end of our chat, you'll understand why tossing a reactive dog inside a dog park to 'socialize' them isn't just ineffective—it could worsen their anxieties. So gear up and join us; we're sharing practical advice and strategies to turn a dog park into a behavioral tool.

Episode Link(s):
Recommended Training Treats and Treat Bag

Facebook

Resources:
Scott Sheaffer's Free & Premium Training Videos
Scott Sheaffer's Dog Behavior Articles
Book an Online or In-Person Session with Scott

About Scott Sheaffer
Scott Sheaffer, CCBC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behavior consultant who has worked with thousands of dog owners and their aggressive dogs. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression, and phobias in dogs six months and older. For more information about Scott, see USADogBehavior.com.

Disclaimer
If your dog is aggressive toward humans, consult an experienced, certified canine behavior consultant immediately and ensure your dog cannot harm anyone. This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. Scott Sheaffer and USA Dog Behavior, LLC, are not liable for outcomes resulting from the advice provided.