08/29/2026
Most “common knowledge” about dog behavior is centered around control. A dog’s emotional state isn’t considered. We are supposed to “command” dogs to do (or not do) something and force compliance if they don’t cooperate.
After 10 years of participating in that mindset, I wanted more for my dogs and our relationship, and I was sure others felt the same.
It starts with thinking of dogs as sentient beings with a complex emotional state and innate needs that aren’t met with food or walks.
Equally important is learning to understand what our dogs are telling us. Dogs are constantly communicating. Humans have difficulty recognizing this because dogs are physical communicators. They “speak” with their behavior.
Lily Chin’s insightful and entertaining guide to better human-dog relationships is a fantastic place to start.