Lauren Rubin
No Bad Dogs, Only Bad Owners? We Call BS!

How many times have you heard “there are no bad dogs, only bad owners” on social media? It’s usually used to explain aggressive or other dangerous behaviors for rescue dogs. We’ve also seen clients use it on themselves. “If I were a better owner/If I were less anxious/it’s my fault my dog is like this.”

We are calling bull!

No Bad Dogs, Only Bad Owners? We Call BS!
Lauren Rubin
Thinking About Getting a Second Dog?
Thinking About Getting a Second Dog?
Lauren Rubin
If Your Dog is Afraid of Strangers: Stop Having ...

I know, this goes against what we call common sense. But I promise, there are reasons behind my madness.

The thought is: my dog is afraid of strangers. My dog loves food. Having strangers feed my dog treats will teach my dog that the stranger is good! Seems reasonable, except unfortunately, that’s not how fearful dogs work.

The reality is: if your dog is truly fearful, then at best, this doesn’t impact your dog’s distress - no real improvement but no dramatic change. At worst: this could cause a bite.

Here’s why:

If Your Dog is Afraid of Strangers: Stop Having People Hand Them Treats
Lauren Rubin
COVID-19 Help: My dog is barking all day!
COVID-19 Help: My dog is barking all day!

If Your Dog is Afraid of Strangers: Stop Having People Hand Them Treats

If Your Dog is Afraid of Strangers: Stop Having People Hand Them Treats

I know, this goes against what we call common sense. But I promise, there are reasons behind my madness.

The thought is: my dog is afraid of strangers. My dog loves food. Having strangers feed my dog treats will teach my dog that the stranger is good! Seems reasonable, except unfortunately, that’s not how fearful dogs work.

The reality is: if your dog is truly fearful, then at best, this doesn’t impact your dog’s distress - no real improvement but no dramatic change. At worst: this could cause a bite.

Here’s why: