Dog Training Resources
How Dogs Communicate
- Jean Donaldson and her pals created iSpeak Dog, a ginormous reference for dog communication.
- Victoria Stilwell’s thorough and well-organized take on canine body language
- Whoa! Look at all this dog-speak info from Eileen and Dogs. Eileen Anderson is a superstar.
- The Spectrum of Fear, Anxiety, and Stress from Fear-Free Pets
Positive Training Methods
- Jean Donaldson on compulsion training methods – Talk Softly and Carry a Carrot, Not a Stick.
- Lisa Mullinax explains some common misconceptions about positive reinforcement.
- When you Catch Your Dog Doing Something Good and reward them for it. They’ll do it more often!
Service Dog Resources and Laws
- FAQ about Service Animals and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- North Carolina Service Animal Laws
- The International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP) is a disability rights advocacy organization.
- Assistance Dogs International (ADI) is a worldwide coalition of not-for-profit assistance dog organizations that sets standards for the industry.
- The Fair Housing Act and Service Dogs
- Atlas Assistance Dogs (ADI Accredited owner-training)
Our Favorite Resources for Those Living with Chronic Illness or Disability
- The Spoon Theory by Christine Miserandino The theory uses spoons as a visual way to illustrate the energy limitations that can result from living with disability, chronic illness, or overwhelm.
- Additional representations of The Spoon Theory
- National Institute of Mental Health NIMH offers brochures and fact sheets on mental health disorders and related topics for patients and their families, health professionals, and the public.
- Strugglecare Skills for survival and self-kindness. So many great resources here!
American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) Position Statements
Gear We Love and Recommend
- Bold Lead Designs Service Dog equipment and beyond!
- Front-attachment harnesses like the Balance Harness
- PetSafe 3-in-1 Harness
- Freedom Harness
- A good 6-ft leash so you can give your dog room to sniff on your walk
- 6-in-1 Kurgo leash and
- The Atlas Leash are our favorites.
- Squishy Face Walking Belt is great for hands-free walking and training.
General Dog Training
Do You Suspect That Your Dog Is Struggling with Separation-Related Behaviors?
If you seek help for your dog’s separation-related behavior. we recommend working only with trainers who specialize in this. They are experienced and efficient in helping your dog feel comfortable alone at home.
This type of behavior modification is best achieved virtually!
Our favorites are:
Question, Comments, Snide Remarks?
Need More Than an FAQ?
These resources are a great start—but if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just want a little backup, we’re here for that too. Let’s build a plan that’s tailored to your dog, your goals, and your daily chaos.