Scott’s Dog Behavior Blog


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About Scott

Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, is a dog behavior specialist. Scott specializes in the assessment and treatment of fear, anxiety, aggression and phobias in dogs six months and older.

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Dog Bites: Unveiling the Different Types and What They Indicate About a Dog’s Aggression

Average Reading Time: 1 minute

In the latest eye-opening episode of the Dog Aggression Answers Podcast, host, Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, delves into a critical yet often misunderstood aspect of canine behavior: dog bites. This episode is not just a regular discussion; it’s an essential guide for anyone frequently interacting with dogs, whether you're a dog owner, trainer, rescue worker, veterinary professional, pet sitter, or groomer.

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Mastering Leash Control, The Best Collars for Aggressive and Reactive Dogs

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 1 second

Finding the Right Dog Collar for Aggressive and Reactive Dogs

Struggling with a reactive or aggressive dog? Tune into the Dog Aggression Answers podcast for essential guidance. In my latest episode, Mastering Leash Control: The Best Collars for Aggressive and Reactive Dogs, I provide a detailed ranking of eight common dog collars, revealing their pros and cons.

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The Story of a Dog That Attacked a Mentally Disabled Child, a Case That Will Give You Hope

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 15 seconds

Unveiling a Tale of Empathy and Understanding

In our newest episode of the Dog Aggression Answers podcast, we delve into a story that tugs at the heartstrings - a tale about a dog, a mentally disabled child, and a journey of understanding and empathy. This episode, titled, The Story of a Dog That Attacked a Mentally Disabled Child, a Case That Will Give You Hope is not just a story; it's an exploration of the depths of human and animal relationships.

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Why is My Dog Aggressive to People Outside of My Family?

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 28 seconds

Dogs are often considered a man's best friend, offering unconditional love and companionship. However, many dog owners find themselves puzzled and concerned when their usually lovable pet turns aggressive towards strangers. In this podcast episode of the Dog Aggression Answers podcast, Scott Sheaffer delves into the world of canine fear and aggression, shedding light on why dogs behave this way.

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Dog Aggression: How a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant Can Help You and Your Dog

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 34 seconds

Dog behavior can be complex, often requiring professional intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of both the pet and its owners. In this podcast episode, Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior consultant, provides a guide to understanding the world of dog behavior consultancy.

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Dog Aggression and Your Veterinarian, Their Role in Treatment

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 29 seconds

Understanding the role your veterinarian plays in managing and treating your dog's behavioral issues is crucial for every pet owner. In our recent podcast episode, Scott Sheaffer, a certified dog behavior expert, provides valuable insights into this under-explored area.

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Barking Dogs: What's the Problem and How Do We Fix It?

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 31 seconds

Understanding your dog's barking can offer deep insights into their emotional states. In our latest podcast episode, Barbara Sheaffer sits down with seasoned dog behaviorist Scott Sheaffer to unlock the mysteries of canine communication. We leave no stone unturned in our quest to provide a long-term solution to incessant dog barking.

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Why is Dog Aggression on the Rise?

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 38 seconds

In recent years, an alarming rise in dog aggression has been observed globally, raising questions about the root causes and potential solutions. Our latest podcast episode, featuring dog behavior specialist Scott Sheaffer, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, delves deep into this multi-faceted issue, offering expert insights and effective strategies to address it.

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6 Things Parents Need to Know to Keep Their Kids Safe Around Dogs

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 43 seconds

In our latest podcast episode titled "6 Things Parents Need to Know to Keep Their Kids Safe Around Dogs", we take a deep dive into the often misunderstood world of canine behavior, particularly focusing on the safety of children around dogs.

Understanding dog behavior is critical in ensuring child safety. It is essential to know that even the most friendly family pet can exhibit aggressive behavior in certain situations. This episode emphasizes the importance of supervision, not only indoors but also outdoors, where children might encounter unfamiliar dogs.

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The Hidden Lives of Aggressive Dogs: Are They Really Happy?

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 53 seconds

Our pets are an integral part of our lives. Their happiness and wellbeing are often tied to our own. But what happens when our canine companions display aggressive behavior? Is it merely bad behavior or is there more to it? This is the topic of my latest episode with the same title on Dog Aggression Answers podcast. This short article provides a summary of this episode.

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Is Your Dog's Aggression Meant To Protect You?

Average Reading Time: 2 minutes, 8 seconds

If you're a dog owner, you've probably had that moment when your dog starts barking, growling, or showing signs of aggression toward a stranger. It's a situation that can leave you puzzled, wondering why your otherwise friendly canine companion is suddenly acting out. This behavior is often perceived as a dog's instinct to protect their owners. However, is this really the case?

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Managing Dog Aggression to Humans: A Guide for Pet Owners

Average Reading Time: 1 minute, 47 seconds

Human aggression in dogs is a serious issue that can’t be taken lightly by dog owners. But where do you go to get help for dog aggression to humans? We’re excited to provide a new resource that is free and available to everyone.

Before I tell you about this new resource, I need to briefly explain why dog aggression to humans can’t be ignored.

It’s a problem that affects not only the dog, but also its owners and everyone around them. While aggression can manifest in various forms, including growling, barking, snarling, or even biting, the consequences of ignoring or mishandling this issue can be detrimental to all involved.

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4 Ideas to Keep Your Dog From Barking in the Backyard

Average Reading Time: 2 minutes, 36 seconds

Barking in the backyard is a common behavior for dogs, and humans don’t always appreciate it on either side of the fence. What many people don’t know is that the act of barking can be a self-rewarding behavior for dogs – they like barking! We need to get it under control, as it typically only gets worse for a number of reasons.

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13 Ways You Can Exercise Your Dog This Summer (Indoors and Outdoors)

Average Reading Time: 3 minutes, 29 seconds

Summer is around the corner and it’s going to be hot, especially here in Texas! There’s no excuse not to mentally and physically exercise your dog every day, even when it’s really hot outside. I’ve provided you with 14 ways you can exercise your dog below; most of them can be done inside.

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Would My Dog Ever Bite My Child?

Average Reading Time: 2 minutes, 46 seconds

No one can guarantee that a dog, even your own, will not bite your child. Some dog owners think their family dog would never hurt a flea, much less bite their own child. Remember that dogs are animals and, given the right circumstances, may respond to your child by biting.

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Episode 05, Dog Aggression Answers Podcast: Tools and Supplies Needed for Treating Dog Aggression

As you prepare to dive headfirst into behavior modification for your beloved pet dog, make sure you’ve covered all the essential prerequisite tools and supplies. In this episode, I explain the three main things every dog owner should have before treating dog aggression: equipment, management and owner education.

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