Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Our Dog Is Digging Up Our Yard!
Dear Critter Corner: Our dog is constantly digging in our yard. He digs holes in the grass and rips up flowers and plants. I’m concerned about not only the state of our yard, but also the possibility of him hurting himself. What can I do to stop him from digging?...
My Dog Has Started Barking at Other Dogs
Dear Critter Corner: I adopted my dog about a year ago and they have been so sweet, but recently they have started to bark at other dogs while out on our walks. What can I do to work on this behavior so we can walk near dogs again? Noticing that your dog is becoming...
Tips to Reduce Tugging on the Leash and Barking at Other Dogs
Dear Critter Corner: Our pup just turned 4 years, and we are still struggling with a few behaviors that we have been working on for some time. We’d like to reduce his barking at the neighbor dog and have him walk in our downtown area on a loose leash rather than...
My Cat Is Jumping Up on Counters and Tables
Dear Critter Corner: My cat Milo keeps jumping on our counters, tabletops, and coffee table. How do I get him to stop? Cats naturally like to climb high vertical perches and lounge watching their environment from above. Your cat may be looking for higher areas from...
When to Stop Giving Treats for Training
Dear Critter Corner: When can I stop giving my dog treats for training? This is one of the most common questions from owners. The short answer? Not as soon as you think! Food is one of the most powerful training tools because we control access to it. Since dogs rely...
Protecting and Calming Your Dog on the 4th of July
Dear Critter Corner: We have a new pup in our home and are concerned about the upcoming 4th of July holiday and how our pup will react to the fireworks. What are some steps we can take to ensure a safe and stress-free holiday for our pup? The 4th of July can be a...
Our Dog Gets Distracted and Barks When We’re Out
Dear Critter Corner: Our pup tends to bark at things when we are out and about, especially when they stare at something for too long. We have been working to get more focus and attention from them in this setting but are struggling. Do you have any tips for building...
My Dog Barks at Every Noise
Dear Critter Corner: My dog barks at every noise in the hallway outside our apartment. My neighbors are patient and understanding, but I'd love to help him bark less. Do you have any suggestions? Barking at noises around the home is a normal canine behavior. Dogs are...
Teaching Bite Inhibition to a Puppy
Dear Critter Corner: We’ve had our puppy for a few weeks, and she has become very mouthy (or “bitey”). What can we do to stop her from being so mouthy? Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Nipping, chewing, and grabbing are common behaviors, especially during...
Training Classes for Dogs
Dear Critter Corner: We have done basic obedience classes with our pup and have had a lot of fun. We are looking to do more. Can you give recommendations on the types of classes that are out there and what they focus on? There are many types of training classes out...