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Stargardt Disease is a genetic eye disorder that has gained attention in the canine world, particularly among Labrador Retrievers and related breeds. While the name may sound intimidating, understanding the condition in layman’s terms helps dog owners make informed decisions about testing, breeding, and care. What is Stargardt Disease and how does it affect my dog At its core, Stargardt Disease is a degenerative retinal condition. The retina is the light‑sensitive tissue at t

Stargardt Disease (STGD) is a hereditary retinal disorder linked to mutations in the ABCA4 gene. Although it was first identified in Labrador Retrievers—leading some to assume it is breed‑specific—research has confirmed that this genetic mutation occurs across multiple breeds. This article examines the wider impact of STGD, explains why testing beyond just Labrador Retrievers is critical, and offers guidance to help breeders and owners make informed, responsible decisions. Wh

Training a puppy is often seen as a matter of teaching commands, leash manners, and socialization. Yet the truth is that a dog’s training is only as advanced as his human. We’ve all heard the analogy of “putting the cart before the horse.” In dog training, this couldn’t be more prominent. Before you put the training lead on the puppy, you must first train the human. This article explores human behavioral techniques, in preparation for puppy training, showing how mindset, cons

Why Puppies Explore the World with Their Mouths From the moment they are born, puppies experience their environment through taste, touch, and chewing. This instinct is deeply rooted in their wolf ancestors, who relied on their mouths not only for survival—hunting, carrying, and communicating—but also for social bonding within the pack . Wolves and Dogs use many behaviors and physical actions to communicate their wants and needs. Mouthing, which includes biting, is one way can

Introduction: Think Like a Wolf Here’s some food for thought, dogs are not strictly carnivores. Going back to their ancestor the wolf, they are more opportunistic. The wolf will eat whatever provides them nutrition,  meat from prey, foraged food staples, like berries, even poop. Yes, gross but scat from other animals often provide undigested food sources. When dog parents ask me what to feed their dogs,  I often suggest they think like a wolf. Go back to basics. I also sugges

When you bring a puppy into your home, every decision feels like it matters—and it does. One common question that surfaces among new dog owners is: “Should I give my puppy an old shoe?”  It seems like a practical solution. You’ve got worn-out shoes lying around, and your puppy is teething and chewing everything in sight. They are assessed with smells, and your smell builds bonds. Why not let them gnaw on an old shoe? But this simple idea opens up a complex conversation about