enrichment

A dog’s paw rests gently in a person’s hand. Text reads: “Dogs & Consent, Smiles Dog Training”.

Consent Isn’t Just for People—Dogs Need It Too

We’re finally seeing more conversations about consent between people, and that’s a huge step forward. But here’s something we rarely discuss: dogs deserve consent too. Dogs communicate yes and no through body language and behavior, but we often miss—or ignore—those signals. By consent, I mean freely given agreement—a clear “yes” to an action or interaction. […]

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Boston Terrier in front, veterinary professional in blue scrubs using a stethoscope to listen to terrier's chest with words "Chronic Illness: My Journey"

How My Chronic Illness Journey Elevated My Canine Behavior Expertise

I’ve been struggling with a chronic illness since 2012. I honestly didn’t even know at first that it was chronic. I was just experiencing a lot of different symptoms that made me feel “blah” and there wasn’t a good explanation for it for quite awhile. I tried changing my diet and exercise and worked with

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lightning striking desert of cacti, stormy clouds in sky, text: Thunderstorm Distress, Smiles Dog Training on a blue box background

A Positive Reinforcement Approach to Thunderstorm Distress

The monsoons have arrived! While some may find comfort in the cozy ambience of a thunderstorm, many dogs experience an entirely different reaction – fear and anxiety. If your pup trembles, hides, or seeks solace during storms, you are not alone. Thunderstorm distress is a prevalent issue among dogs, affecting all breeds and backgrounds. In

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