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Adopting a Rescue Dog? What You Need to Know About the Settling-In Period
My rescue dogs: Hazel, a red/brown bull breed cross on the left and Evie, a tan bull breed cross on the right. Standing on top of some logs at Rendelsham Forest, Suffolk. When a rescue dog comes into a new home, it’s natural for them to go through a settling-in period. Many professionals use the 3-3-3 rule as a guideline to help owners understand what to expect: 3 days to begin decompressing 3 weeks to start learning the routine 3 months to feel at home and show their tru
leannemcwade
Apr 92 min read


Understanding Piloerection: What “Hackles Up” Really Means in Dogs
Have you ever noticed a dog’s fur standing up along their back and thought, “Uh-oh, they’re aggressive”? That raised fur is called piloerection , commonly referred to as “hackles up.” It’s essentially a dog’s version of goosebumps — the fur standing on end. Piloerection is an involuntary reflex , just like when your own hair stands up on your arms in response to cold or a sudden surprise. Like you, when that happens, it’s not something your dog can control. Why Dogs Get Hackl
leannemcwade
Mar 131 min read


Children and Dogs Safety: Teaching Safe and Respectful Interactions
Many challenges between children and dogs can be prevented with the right understanding and support. Often, issues don’t come from “bad dogs” or “naughty children,” but from misunderstandings and a lack of clear boundaries.
Many challenges between children and dogs can be prevented with the right understanding and support. Often, issues don’t come from “bad dogs” or “naughty children,” but from misunderstandings and a lack of clear boundaries. Teaching children how to intera
leannemcwade
Jan 154 min read


Let Sleeping Dogs Lie: Why Startle Reflex Matters for Dog Safety
Did you know that dogs have a startle reflex ? A startle reflex is an automatic reaction — meaning a dog can bite as a reflex if suddenly startled. This often happens when dogs are woken abruptly from sleep. Many bites, especially involving children, occur when a dog is startled awake. Children may run up to hug a sleeping dog or accidentally step on their tail, triggering the reflex. When a dog bites through the startle reflex, it’s not a deliberate action — it’s a quick, in
leannemcwade
Nov 9, 20251 min read


Be the Hero Your Dog Deserves: Building Trust, Safety, and Happiness
Being a dog owner is a special privilege — and it comes with a huge responsibility. Our dogs rely on us to meet their physical,...
leannemcwade
Oct 12, 20252 min read


Mastering Canine Communication: How to Read Your Dog’s Body Language
" Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen. " – Orhan Pamuk Understanding canine body language is key to building a strong...
leannemcwade
Sep 29, 20252 min read
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