Parallels in Physical Rehabilitation & Behavior Modification Programs If you’re working on a behavior modification plan to help your dog with fear, anxiety, or aggression issues, chances are you’ve pondered (or asked your trainer) at least one of the following questions along the way: Is all this “management” really necessary right now? Aren’t we just avoiding...Read More

Most dogs who display reactive or aggressive behaviors – lunging, barking, growling – do so in large part because they FEEL a certain way about their triggers: fearful, anxious, frustrated, or some combination of the three. Just like with people, a dog’s emotions have a big influence on their behavior. If they no longer feel...Read More

by Dr. Emily Levine, DVM, DACVB Dr. Emily Levine, DVM, DACVB is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, co-owner of Instinct Englewood and owner of the Animal Behavior Clinic of NJ.  ***Remember, veterinarians and veterinary behaviorists are the only individuals qualified to discuss and recommend behavior medications for your pet.***  1. THEY EXIST Yes, there are behavior...Read More

“Is he friendly?” If you own a dog, you’ve been asked this question. If you own a perfectly social dog who enjoys meeting new dogs and new people, you’ve probably never given this question a second thought (or, you’ve felt a little swell of pride as you happily responded, “Yes, very!”). But what about all...Read More

It can feel incredibly disheartening, concerning, sad and frustrating all at the same time. Your dog that you’ve had since he was a cute puppy, or the dog you rescued several months ago, is now showing signs of lunging, snapping, snarling, barking, growling and/or potentially biting other dogs or people. Sometimes, these behaviors are perfectly...Read More