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Why do some dogs with aggression, fear, anxiety, and reactivity improve while others struggle? Dog behaviorist Scott Sheaffer explains the four owner-related factors that strongly predict success in difficult canine behavior cases.
Why do some dogs become aggressive? Learn the real causes behind aggression, including fear, anxiety, pain, frustration, genetics, and learned behavior.
Most dog behavior issues aren’t obedience problems; they’re misunderstood dog behavioral patterns. Learn what you’re missing and how it affects your dog’s behavior.
Some common dog training advice sounds right—but actually makes behavior worse. Learn the 3 biggest mistakes and what to do instead.
Discover how Dogosterone and canine HRT can resolve fear-based behavior, anxiety, and mobility issues in neutered male dogs. Is your dog hormonally imbalanced?
Dog owners often unintentionally cue fear and aggression in their dogs. Learn how subtle human behaviors can trigger reactivity—and what to do instead.
Discover six rare and often misunderstood types of dog aggression, including sleep startle, redirected aggression, and predatory behavior toward humans. Learn why professional help is critical.
Do dogs go to heaven? A pan-religious look at what Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Eastern traditions say about pets and the afterlife, plus personal reflections on grief, the Rainbow Bridge, and the book Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant.
Do dogs know when another dog dies? Learn how dogs perceive death, why they react differently, and how to help surviving dogs adjust after a loss.
Uncover the truth behind dog aggression. Learn why barking, lunging, or snapping is a symptom of fear, not a "mean" personality. Discover the 7 common types of dog aggression and how understanding triggers leads to effective behavior modification, not just labeling.
Worried about your dog and new baby? Discover the reassuring truth: dogs rarely see babies as prey. Learn the key safety periods, how dogs truly perceive infants, and actionable steps for a harmonious home.
About ScottScott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a certified dog behaviorist. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression and phobias in dogs six months and older. Learn More |
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Finding the Right Dog Collar for Aggressive and Reactive Dogs
Struggling with a reactive or aggressive dog? Tune into the Dog Aggression Answers podcast for essential guidance. In my latest episode, Mastering Leash Control: The Best Collars for Aggressive and Reactive Dogs, I provide a detailed ranking of eight common dog collars, revealing their pros and cons.
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Unveiling a Tale of Empathy and Understanding
In our newest episode of the Dog Aggression Answers podcast, we delve into a story that tugs at the heartstrings - a tale about a dog, a mentally disabled child, and a journey of understanding and empathy. This episode, titled, The Story of a Dog That Attacked a Mentally Disabled Child, a Case That Will Give You Hope is not just a story; it's an exploration of the depths of human and animal relationships.
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Dogs are often considered a man's best friend, offering unconditional love and companionship. However, many dog owners find themselves puzzled and concerned when their usually lovable pet turns aggressive towards strangers. In this podcast episode of the Dog Aggression Answers podcast, Scott Sheaffer delves into the world of canine fear and aggression, shedding light on why dogs behave this way.
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Dog behavior can be complex, often requiring professional intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of both the pet and its owners. In this podcast episode, Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior consultant, provides a guide to understanding the world of dog behavior consultancy.
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Understanding the role your veterinarian plays in managing and treating your dog's behavioral issues is crucial for every pet owner. In our recent podcast episode, Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior expert, provides valuable insights into this under-explored area.
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Understanding your dog's barking can offer deep insights into their emotional states. In our latest podcast episode, Barbara Sheaffer sits down with seasoned dog behaviorist Scott Sheaffer to unlock the mysteries of canine communication. We leave no stone unturned in our quest to provide a long-term solution to incessant dog barking.
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In recent years, an alarming rise in dog aggression has been observed globally, raising questions about the root causes and potential solutions. Our latest podcast episode, featuring dog behavior specialist Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, delves deep into this multi-faceted issue, offering expert insights and effective strategies to address it.
Read MoreAverage Reading Time: 1 minute, 43 seconds
In our latest podcast episode titled "6 Things Parents Need to Know to Keep Their Kids Safe Around Dogs", we take a deep dive into the often misunderstood world of canine behavior, particularly focusing on the safety of children around dogs.
Understanding dog behavior is critical in ensuring child safety. It is essential to know that even the most friendly family pet can exhibit aggressive behavior in certain situations. This episode emphasizes the importance of supervision, not only indoors but also outdoors, where children might encounter unfamiliar dogs.
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Our pets are an integral part of our lives. Their happiness and wellbeing are often tied to our own. But what happens when our canine companions display aggressive behavior? Is it merely bad behavior or is there more to it? This is the topic of my latest episode with the same title on Dog Aggression Answers podcast. This short article provides a summary of this episode.
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If you're a dog owner, you've probably had that moment when your dog starts barking, growling, or showing signs of aggression toward a stranger. It's a situation that can leave you puzzled, wondering why your otherwise friendly canine companion is suddenly acting out. This behavior is often perceived as a dog's instinct to protect their owners. However, is this really the case?
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Human aggression in dogs is a serious issue that can’t be taken lightly by dog owners. But where do you go to get help for dog aggression to humans? We’re excited to provide a new resource that is free and available to everyone.
Before I tell you about this new resource, I need to briefly explain why dog aggression to humans can’t be ignored.
It’s a problem that affects not only the dog, but also its owners and everyone around them. While aggression can manifest in various forms, including growling, barking, snarling, or even biting, the consequences of ignoring or mishandling this issue can be detrimental to all involved.
Read MoreAverage Reading Time: 2 minutes, 36 seconds
Barking in the backyard is a common behavior for dogs, and humans don’t always appreciate it on either side of the fence. What many people don’t know is that the act of barking can be a self-rewarding behavior for dogs – they like barking! We need to get it under control, as it typically only gets worse for a number of reasons.
Read MoreAverage Reading Time: 3 minutes, 29 seconds
Summer is around the corner and it’s going to be hot, especially here in Texas! There’s no excuse not to mentally and physically exercise your dog every day, even when it’s really hot outside. I’ve provided you with 14 ways you can exercise your dog below; most of them can be done inside.
Read MoreAverage Reading Time: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
No one can guarantee that a dog, even your own, will not bite your child. Some dog owners think their family dog would never hurt a flea, much less bite their own child. Remember that dogs are animals and, given the right circumstances, may respond to your child by biting.
Read MoreAs you prepare to dive headfirst into behavior modification for your beloved pet dog, make sure you’ve covered all the essential prerequisite tools and supplies. In this episode, I explain the three main things every dog owner should have before treating dog aggression: equipment, management and owner education.
Read MoreCheck out my new weekly podcast named "Dog Aggression Answers!” This podcast provides insights and treatment ideas for dogs with all types of aggression.
For more information, click Dog Aggression Answers.
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A true story about a loving dog owner named Tim, a rescue dog named Buddy that repeatedly bit him, and the surprising discovery that changed everything. Learn why understanding canine body language can prevent bites and strengthen your relationship with your dog.