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Dogs + Behavior & Training

  • While dogs do not speak the human language, they still communicate quite effectively and tail wagging enhances their ability to communicate. Position and speed of tail wagging takes on different meanings. Interestingly, dogs do not talk to themselves. They will wag their tails in front of humans or other dogs, but they do not wag when alone!

  • Using desensitization and counterconditioning, a behavior modification technique, can change a pet's negative emotional response to triggers. The technique is well suited for pets experiencing fear, frustration, or hyperarousal. Desensitization must be done slowly and systematically to avoid inadvertently sensitizing the pet.

  • Irish Red and White Setters are joyful and love to have fun. They will run with you, go for hikes, play with the kids, and are up for all sorts of activities like agility, flyball and obedience. Then they'll settle in the comfort of the house to chill with the family.

  • The Irish Setter is highly energetic, easily excited, and exuberant about anything that he senses is about to happen. The prospect of going outdoors, going somewhere in the family car, or even having his food dish filled, sets him off into leaps and bounds of pleasure. He is also quite affectionate, gentle and sweet-natured.

  • He is not called the daredevil of dogdom for nothing. The Irish Terrier is as fiery in personality as he is in color. He is not great with other dogs, but if you want a one-dog entertainment center, you just may have found your match.

  • Clownish and playful, the Irish Water Spaniel is as springy as his coat of tightly wound curls. He is the tallest of the spaniels, and few dogs can match the gusto and enthusiasm that an Irish brings to everything he does, so get ready for high-intensity fun. The Irish would not have it any other way.

  • Despite his size and commanding appearance, the Irish Wolfhound has an even temperament, bonding with his family and showing great loyalty and affection. These dogs are rugged, playful, and protective, yet gentle, sweet and loving.

  • Italian Greyhounds are aloof with those they do not know, but crave attention from their own people. Usually quiet housemates, they will sound alarms with a surprisingly big bark. Affectionately called "Iggies," the IG enjoys being pampered and will seek out soft toys to snuggle and soft pillows and laps to rest their heads on.

  • Always on the tips of his toes in anticipation of the next big chase, game, or adventure, the Jack Russell Terrier has more energy than many pet owners can handle. Super active with a loud bark and an unquenchable prey drive, Jack Russells will keep you busy thinking up challenges to keep them out of trouble.

  • Chins are gentle dogs that need and want lots of togetherness. They do well with other dogs as playmates. Although loving and eager to please, they're curious and into things, conducting their own research. Chins cannot be ignored ā€“ they won't let you, tailing owners like a canine private eye. They're sweet and loving with the elderly and infirm, making great lap warmers and therapy dogs.