profile

Positive Dog

Your dog doesn't want to be “bad”

Published 4 months ago • 1 min read

​

One of the biggest reasons people end up in conflict with their dogs is because they believe the dog knows exactly what’s being asked—and is simply choosing not to do it.

“She’s just stubborn.” “He knows better.” “This breed needs a heavier hand.”

Labels like these turn your dog into the villain. And once we decide they’re being “bad,” it suddenly feels justified to correct harshly—or punish.

But here’s the truth: More often than not, the dog is confused, overwhelmed, uncertain, or simply responding to past conditioning.

Instead of asking why the behaviour is happening, many people assume it’s about dominance, manipulation, or defiance.

But there’s a better explanation. There’s science behind behaviour. And there’s a more compassionate—and more effective—way forward.

✨ That’s where my free resources come in. Check them out at the bottom of this email.

Let’s shift from frustration to understanding.

I'm on your team,
Christina

Free Resources

FB Reactivity Group

FB Puppy Group

Relaxation Protocol

Podcast

Podcast

Blog

2738 Holden Corso Rd, Nanaimo, BC v9x 1n5
​Unsubscribe · Preferences​

Positive Dog

Christina Young, BSc, CDBC, PCBC-A

Subscribe if you'd like to receive my somewhat regular emails including training tips and concepts as well as info about my upcoming freebies and programs!

Read more from Positive Dog

Hi there, Can you see how much fun Riker and Jubilee are having in these videos? That’s what training should look like — joyful, connected, and fun for both you and your dog. Not all training is upbeat and energetic, but it should always feel safe, kind, and connected. A friend sent me a post from a well-known trainer who said their distracted dog needed its mouth held shut and to be flipped on its back. Suddenly the dog follows them everywhere - not surprisingly. Dogs are the most forgiving...

5 days ago • 1 min read

💥My newest podcast episode just dropped: Training Plans DON’T Work If you feel like you are doing everything right — following the recipe, sticking to the plan — and it still isn’t working, this episode is for you. Inside, I talk about: Why training plans fall short Mistakes people make when their plan isn’t working (and it’s not your mechanics, treats, or your dog’s ability!) What actually works: training that adapts to your unique dog and real-life challenges This one’s a must-listen if...

6 days ago • 1 min read

If you’ve been struggling with reactivity, overwhelm, or just wishing you could actually enjoy walks with your dog, the Leash Reactivity Deep Dive is for you. This isn’t another surface-level training class. It’s an intensive, hands-on program combining weekly live coaching, daily feedback, and a series of targeted training modules designed to help you and your dog succeed in real life. Here’s what’s inside: ✨ Arousal – not just how to lower it, but when (and why) to raise it, too. ✨ Setting...

9 days ago • 1 min read