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Can Dogs Think Like Humans Why They Follow Human Pointing and What It Reveals About Canine Cognition
Point at a ball under the couch, and many dogs will look where your finger leads. Point at a bowl, a toy, or a hidden treat, and they often follow the gesture as if it means, “Look over there.” That small moment is easy to miss because it feels so normal. Yet it raises a big question: what is happening inside a dog’s mind? Are dogs simply reacting to trained cues, the way a machine responds to a button? Or do they understand something about human intention, attention, and goa

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
1 day ago9 min read


“This house narrates my dog’s thoughts” isn’t just a cute sign on the wall—it genuinely helps connect you with your dog
Talking to your dog like a friend helps your dog learn trust and empathy Living with a dog is one of life’s greatest joys, but it can also be a challenge if you don’t understand how your furry friend thinks and grows. You might have heard the word anthropomorphizing—a big word that means giving your dog human thoughts and feelings. It turns out, this is not just a cute habit; it’s actually a helpful way to connect with your dog. Dogs show about 75% of human behavior character

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
5 days ago4 min read


Decoding Your Dog's Body Language: The Ultimate Guide to Dog Behavior Understanding
You’ve got a furry friend who’s trying to tell you something, but the words are all wagging tails, tilted heads, and those soulful eyes. If you’ve ever wished you had a secret decoder ring for your dog’s body language, you’re in the right place. Understanding your dog’s silent signals is like unlocking a treasure chest of communication that will deepen your bond and make your life together smoother and more joyful. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of dog behavior and bod

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Oct 24 min read


Decoding Your Dog's Body Language
Understanding your dog’s body language is like learning a secret code. Dogs don’t speak words, but their bodies tell stories. If you can read these signals, you’ll build a stronger bond and avoid misunderstandings. This guide will help you spot what your dog is really saying, from tail wags to ear twitches. Dogs use their whole bodies to communicate. Their posture, eyes, ears, tail, and even their breathing give clues about how they feel. Sometimes, a slight change in their

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Aug 204 min read


Why Some Puppies Are Harder to Potty Train and How to Prevent Accidents
Some puppies seem to understand potty training in a few days. Others have accident after accident, even when their people are trying hard and doing the “right” things. That does not mean a puppy is stubborn, spiteful, or impossible to train. It usually means the setup, timing, supervision, or expectations need to change. Young puppies have tiny bladders, short attention spans, and very little freedom control. Some also come with extra challenges, such as a smaller body, a mor

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Jul 239 min read


Keeping Dogs Safe when the weather is hot; Heat Exhaustion, Hot Pavement and Cooling Tips
A warm, sunny day can turn dangerous for a dog faster than many people expect. Dogs do not cool off the way humans do, and they can overheat during a short walk, a backyard play session, or even a car ride with poor airflow. Heat safety is not only a summer issue. High humidity, direct sun, hot pavement, thick coats, limited shade, and too much activity can all put stress on a dog’s body. The good news is that a few simple habits can make hot days much safer. This guide cover

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Jul 218 min read


Why Does My Dog Bark? Understanding and Managing Your Dog’s Barking Behavior
Eye-level view of a curious dog barking in a backyard Dogs bark. It’s one of the most common ways they communicate with us and the world around them. But when your dog’s barking feels nonstop or confusing, it can leave you wondering: why does my dog bark so much? Understanding the reasons behind your dog’s barking is the first step to managing it effectively. Whether you have a lively puppy or a mature dog, knowing what triggers their barks and how to guide their behavior can

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Jul 214 min read


Understanding Dog Behavior Through Neural Pathways: The Importance of Repetition in Training
Training a dog is more than teaching tricks or commands. It is about shaping behavior by creating strong neural pathways in your dog’s brain. These pathways form through repetition, helping your dog understand the rules, boundaries, and their role within your family. This process builds a foundation for clear communication and a harmonious relationship. Dog focusing during a practice session How Dogs Learn Through Neural Pathways Dogs learn by forming connections in their bra

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Jun 294 min read


Nature or Nurture Why Dogs Follow Pointing Gestures
Dogs naturally want to do what their family wants them to do, and nurture helps them learn how to do that

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Jun 263 min read


Decoding Your Dog's Behavior and Body Language: Mastering Dog Communication and Signals
If you've ever wished your dog could just talk, you're not alone. Dogs have their own language, a rich tapestry of signals and behaviors that tell you exactly what they're feeling and thinking. The trick? Learning to read that language. When you do, you unlock a whole new level of connection with your furry friend. This isn’t just about avoiding misunderstandings; it’s about building a lifelong bond that’s as clear as a sunny day in Tumwater, Washington. Let’s dive into the f

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Jun 245 min read


Stop Dog Jumping Behavior: Your Ultimate Guide to Welcoming Guests Calmly
You know the scene all too well: the doorbell rings, your heart skips a beat, and before you can even say "hello," your furry tornado of excitement launches into a full-on jumping frenzy. Guests arrive, and your dog greets them like a fluffy projectile, paws flying, tail wagging like a flag in a hurricane. It’s adorable to some, but let’s be honest - it can quickly turn chaotic, embarrassing, and downright stressful. If you’re ready to turn that wild welcome into a calm, poli

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Jun 84 min read


Master Expert Dog Training Tips with Jeanne
Training your dog is like planting a garden—you need patience, the right tools, and a little know-how to watch something beautiful grow. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of teaching your furry friend good manners, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: with the right guidance, you can transform your pup into a well-behaved companion who listens, learns, and loves you even more. That’s where expert dog training tips come in, and no one does it better than Jeann

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Apr 294 min read


Choosing the Right Dog: Understanding Breeds, Behaviors, and Lifestyle Compatibility
When it comes to the world of canine companions, there exists a remarkable diversity among the various breeds that have been cultivated over centuries. Each breed exhibits unique characteristics, traits, and physical attributes that set them apart from one another, contributing to the rich tapestry of dog breeds available today. From the playful and energetic Labrador Retriever to the regal and dignified Great Dane, the choices are vast and varied, catering to different prefe

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Mar 294 min read
Master Positive Reinforcement Techniques for Dogs: Your Guide to Positive Dog Training
Training your dog can sometimes feel like trying to teach a cat to fetch—frustrating, confusing, and downright puzzling. But what if I told you there’s a way to make training feel like a joyful dance between you and your furry friend? That’s where positive dog training comes in. It’s a time-tested plan that will make a lifelong difference in your relationship with your pup. Ready to master the art of positive reinforcement and turn your dog into the best-behaved companion on

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Mar 265 min read


Decoding Your Dog's Body Language - Dog Behavior Insights
You know that feeling when your dog looks at you with those big, soulful eyes, and you just know they’re trying to tell you something? But what exactly? Dogs don’t speak English (or any human language), but their bodies are like open books, full of stories waiting to be read. If you want to deepen your bond and avoid those frustrating misunderstandings, learning to decode your dog’s body language is a game-changer. Think of it as unlocking a secret code that transforms your

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Mar 224 min read


How to Manage Your Dog's Reactivity to Other Dogs During Walks
Walking your dog should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both of you. But if your dog reacts strongly to other dogs either out of fear or joy during walks, it can turn stressful quickly. Reactivity can mean barking, lunging, growling, or pulling on the leash when your dog sees another dog. This behavior is common but challenging. The good news is that with the right approach, you can help your dog stay calm and focused. This guide breaks down practical steps you can

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Mar 193 min read


Transform Your Dog's Behavior with Jeanne's Obedience and Behavior Coaching
Imagine your dog as a wild stallion, full of energy and spirit, yet sometimes a bit too unruly to handle. Now picture yourself as the skilled rider, ready to guide that stallion with confidence and kindness. That’s exactly what happens when you dive into Jeanne’s obedience and behavior coaching . This isn’t just about showing your dog to sit or stay; it’s about transforming your relationship into a lifelong partnership built on trust, respect, and joy. Let’s embark on this jo

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Mar 134 min read


Stop Your Dog from Jumping on Guests: Dog Jumping Prevention Methods That Work
You know the scene all too well: the doorbell rings, your heart skips a beat, and before you can even say "hello," your furry tornado of excitement launches into a full-on jumping frenzy. It’s like your dog’s auditioning for a canine circus act! But here’s the thing - while it might seem cute or harmless, this behavior can quickly become overwhelming or even dangerous for your guests. The good news? You’re about to discover dog jumping prevention methods that will make a life

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Mar 124 min read


How Playing Games with Your Dog Enhances Learning, Retention and Response
Engaging with your dog through play is more than just fun. It plays a crucial role in how your dog learns, remembers commands, and reacts to your cues. When you incorporate games into your training routine, you create a dynamic environment that boosts your dog’s ability to absorb and retain information. This post explores how playing games with your dog improves learning, retention, and response, offering practical tips and examples to help you build a stronger bond and a sma

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Mar 94 min read


Effective Puppy Biting Prevention and Solutions for New Owners
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is like inviting a tiny tornado of energy, curiosity, and, yes, those sharp little teeth! Puppy biting can feel like a rite of passage, but it doesn’t have to be a painful or frustrating experience. With the right approach, you can turn those nips and chomps into a lifelong bond built on respect and understanding. Let’s dive into some effective puppy biting solutions that will make a world of difference in your relationship with your furr

Jeanne Harris, MA Psychology
Mar 84 min read
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