Send us a textWhy struggle with training your dog when you could have the ultimate guide to success? In today's episode of Dog Training Today, I, Will Bangura, break down the best dog training options for your furry friend. We weigh the advantages and disadvantages of private lessons, group classes, and board and train programs, making sure you get the most personalized advice. Discover why private one-on-one training stands out as the most effective, especially for tackling those pesky nuisa...
Send us a textCan letting your dog follow you around all day actually contribute to separation anxiety? Let's explore this common concern and find the right balance between bonding and fostering independence in your canine companion. Join me, Will Bangura, as we debunk the myth that comforting a fearful dog reinforces its fear and discover why positive reinforcement is key to effective training. This episode is packed with insights on how to keep your dog mentally and physically engaged throu...
Send us a textAre forceful dog training techniques really effective, or do they simply instill fear? In this episode, we scrutinize the controversial methods of Dog Daddy Augusto de Oliveira through the lens of an eye-opening article by Angel Willis. After spending $1,500 on a 90-minute session, Angel initially saw improvements in her pit bull's aggressive behavior, only to face disappointment when the aggression returned. Discover how her journey took a positive turn with Adrienne Farricelli...
Send us a textHow can you ensure your furry friend stays safe when temperatures soar? Tune in as we share essential tips and critical insights to keep your dogs comfortable and protected throughout the summer months. Learn the simple back-of-the-hand test to check if the ground is too hot for your dog’s paws, and get detailed comparisons of using boots versus socks for paw protection. We also give you step-by-step guidance on acclimating your dog to wear these protective items, making sure th...
Send us a textLeash reactivity in dogs is a common yet stressful challenge for many pet owners. Imagine transforming your daily walks from chaotic to calm. Join me, Will Bangura, on Dog Training Today as we uncover the nuances of leash reactivity and how it differs from genuine aggression. You'll gain insights into the root causes like fear, anxiety, and past negative experiences, and understand the significant role you play as a handler. By learning why punishment-based methods backfire, you...
Send us a textWant your dogs to remain calm and composed when the doorbell rings or guests arrive? Discover proven strategies in our latest episode that will transform chaotic greetings into peaceful welcomes. We'll break down the essential steps of one-on-one training, revealing how to effectively use leashes, maintain consistent management, and prevent undesirable behaviors before integrating your dogs together. Whether you're dealing with one dog or several, you'll gain practical insights ...
Send us a textWant to ensure a stress-free and calm 4th of July for your furry friend? Join me, Will Bangura, as I share effective and compassionate strategies to help your dog manage fireworks anxiety. Discover the signs of severe anxiety, like trembling and drooling, and learn how to create a safe haven for your pet using simple yet powerful methods such as sound-dampening walk-in closets and calming reggae music. We'll debunk common myths about comforting anxious dogs and provide a compreh...
Send us a textAs your go-to pet behavior expert, Will Bangura, I'm shedding light on the crucial topic of dog bite prevention, sharing insights that could save you or your loved ones from becoming part of a staggering statistic. Nearly 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year, with a significant number of those bitten being children. In this episode, we navigate through the reasons why dogs bite, from fear to sheer excitement, and the importance of understanding their body language ...
Send us a textEmbark on a transformative journey with us as we shed light on the humane evolution of dog training. Say goodbye to the intimidation of shock collars and the myth of dominance, and welcome the era of positive reinforcement. This episode unveils the science-backed techniques that build trust and foster a stronger bond between you and your furry friend. My personal pivot from punitive to compassionate training illustrates an industry-wide reckoning with outdated methods, and I who...
Send us a textEver found yourself puzzled by a young pup's behavior during vet visits? I certainly was when a four-month-old trainee of mine was hastily branded as aggressive. Together, we'll uncover the stark differences between fear-based reactions and genuine aggression in puppies, as I recount a story that serves as a cautionary tale for all pet owners. Misinterpretation of natural responses can lead to serious consequences, emphasizing why it's crucial to discern a puppy's genuine temper...
Send us a textEver felt baffled by your dog’s unpredictable antics? You’re not alone. This episode peels back the layers on the mystery surrounding canine personalities and effective training methods. We're tapping into the latest AI research that's uncovered five unique dog temperament types, giving you a roadmap to better understand and train your furry friend. And when Tony from San Francisco reached out about his fear-plagued rescue dog, Scout, we tackled the issue head-on. Discover the p...
Send us a textDog Training Today with Will Bangura. Have you ever witnessed the intense focus your furry friend has when chasing the beam of a laser pointer? It may seem innocuous at first, but as your guide Will Van Gura, I'm here to illuminate the dark side of this seemingly playful activity. Our latest episode confronts the reality of laser point syndrome in dogs, a condition where the line between fun and fixation blurs, leading to potential obsessive-compulsive disorders. Through a thoug...
Send us a textEver wondered why Fido turns fierce when it's crate time? This episode is your key to understanding and transforming crate aggression into crate affection! Your host, Will Bangura, peels back the layers of this canine conundrum, ensuring safety first with a step-by-step guide on positive muzzle conditioning. Learn how to create a strong, favorable relationship between your dog and their wire basket muzzle, setting the stage for a stress-free training journey.Join me as we embark...
Send us a textEver been pulled off your feet by a dog with an eye for the horizon? We've got the rundown on why your furry friend might be more interested in chasing squirrels than chilling at your feet. Join us as we unpack the mysteries of canine behavior, diving into the psychology behind a dog's deep-seated urge to chase. You'll come to understand not only the 'why' but also the 'how' of managing this instinctual habit.Our conversation takes you through the nuanced world of dog training, ...
Send us a textStruggling with a four-legged friend who just can't seem to grasp the concept of potty training? Stress no more! Unleash the secrets to a mess-free home as I, Will Bangura, guide you through the maze of housebreaking your canine companion. I'll walk you through supervising and guiding your pup with the compassion and consistency needed to ensure that accidents become a thing of the past. From understanding your dog's body language to the correct use of crates and cues, I'm here ...
Send us a textJoin me, Will Bangura, as I share a lifetime of insight from the dog training trenches, guiding you through the intricate process of finding the ideal trainer for your four-legged confidante. With over 35 years of experience, I've navigated the evolving landscape of dog training philosophy—from a balanced approach to becoming a champion of force-free, positive reinforcement techniques. In this candid discussion, I dissect the often misunderstood industry, breaking down why it's ...
Send us a textEver felt like you're at the end of your leash with dog training challenges? Well, you're in luck because National Train Your Dog Month is here, and we're unleashing a wealth of knowledge to help you and your pooch overcome those pesky behavioral hurdles. From potty training slip-ups to mastering the art of a calm sit-stay amid the jingle of doorbells, our latest discussion has got you covered. Tune in, and I, Will Bangura, your seasoned host with 35 years of dog behavior expert...
Send us a textImagine a world where your dog navigates the chaos of a squirrel chase with the poise of a Zen master. In our latest conversation, we celebrate National Train Your Dog Month by unfolding the secrets to mastering your dog's impulse control. Say goodbye to the days of tug-of-war with your pooch at the sight of every passing bike, and hello to serene walks in the park. We tackle a lineup of exercises that will transform your furry friend's reactions to high-stimulation scenarios, a...
Send us a textEver wondered how your canine companion can become the confident pooch you always knew they were? Unlock the secrets to your dog's self-assurance with our step-by-step guide through the world of pattern recognition and positive reinforcement. This episode delves into the art of using classical conditioning and clicker markers to not only train your pup but also to tackle their fears head-on. Discover the transformative power of creating predictable, positive experiences, and wat...
Send us a textDid you know that your dog actually loves to work for its food? And that canine enrichment not only helps prevent boredom and anxiety but also stimulates their mental and physical capabilities? Welcome to our latest episode of Pet Talk where we explore these fascinating facts and much more, all from the perspective of your pet's behavior and needs. We also debunk the myth of the 'dog daddy' and help you understand the concept of contra-free loading to improve your dog's learning...