Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers common questions about how Whole Dog Life approaches dogs, behavior, learning, and care. These are not meant to be definitive answers for every situation, but clarifications to help you understand how this site is structured and why it takes the perspective it does.
Is Whole Dog Life a dog training site?
No. Whole Dog Life is an understanding-first site. While learning and behavior are discussed, the focus is on understanding why behavior happens rather than prescribing commands, techniques, or training plans.
Many readers use this understanding alongside training or professional support.
Is this site anti-training?
No. This site is not opposed to training. It simply does not treat training as the starting point for every behavior concern.
Understanding a dog’s emotional state, environment, health, and communication often changes how — or whether — training is needed.
Why don’t you use behavior labels?
Labels can be useful shorthand, but they often oversimplify complex situations. When dogs are reduced to labels, important context can be missed.
This site focuses on patterns, experiences, and pressures rather than fixed identities.
Does this approach work for reactive or fearful dogs?
Many of the ideas on this site are especially helpful for dogs experiencing reactivity, fear, or chronic stress because they emphasize safety, predictability, and understanding over correction.
However, each dog is an individual, and professional guidance may still be necessary.
Do you recommend punishment or correction?
No. Whole Dog Life does not promote punishment-based approaches.
Behavior is communication. When communication is punished, clarity is lost. Understanding behavior often reduces the need for correction altogether.
Is this science-based or experience-based?
It is both.
The site draws from behavioral science, developmental understanding, and real-world experience with dogs. Where research exists, it is respected. Where lived experience fills gaps, it is acknowledged.
Can I use this alongside a trainer or behaviorist?
Yes. Many readers use Whole Dog Life to deepen their understanding while working with trainers, veterinarians, or behavior professionals.
This site is not a replacement for professional care, but it can help you ask better questions and recognize important patterns.
Do I need to read everything to benefit?
No. The site is designed to be explored slowly.
Many readers return to the same articles over time as their dog’s needs change. Learning here is meant to unfold, not be completed.
Who is this site best suited for?
Whole Dog Life is for people who want a deeper, more respectful relationship with their dogs and are open to understanding behavior beyond surface-level explanations.
It is especially helpful for those who feel traditional advice has left important questions unanswered.
Where should I start?
If you’re new, the How to Use This Site page offers gentle guidance.
You can also begin with any pillar that reflects your current concerns. There is no required order.