Month: November 2013

8 Ways That I’m an Admittedly “Soft” Dog Trainer

A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment. — John Wooden I won’t ever forget the back porch conversation I had a few years ago with a punishment-based dog trainer. “You’re a soft trainer,” she informed me. “That’s the difference between us.” I smiled wide and agreed with her, even though I… Read more »

Today, We’re Turning Your Dog Into a Superhero — Literally

I’ve always thought of dogs as a certain type of hero, put here to help us humans in our stumbling attempts to learn compassion. I think most of you will agree: dogs are not only our steady, loving friends, but heroes in many different ways. But have you ever imagined what your own dog would… Read more »

Let’s Talk: What’s the Strangest Dog Name You’ve Ever Heard?

I named my “country-dumped” dog Monster. (“Country dumped” is the term for when people drive their “beloved” pet out to the country and dump him there, assuming he will be fine because someone like me will take him in.) As a puppy, he was a mess of a dog. He bit hands and growled at… Read more »