Dogue Academy Professional Dog Trainer School

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

Dogs and wolves are intelligent species that evolved to navigate complex environments through learning, memory, and adaptability. While they share many cognitive traits, domestication has shaped dogs in unique ways. By examining how canines acquire, process,…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

In recent years, mirror neurons have captured the interest of scientists and animal behaviourists alike. Originally discovered in macaque monkeys in the 1990s, these specialised neurons have been linked to empathy, imitation, and social learning (Rizzolatti…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

While many dog trainers talk about social or cognitive learning, few discuss, or use, the social-cognitive learning theory developed by Canadian psychologist, Albert Bandura. This oversight matters because understanding how animals—and humans—learn through observation, perception, internal…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

Part 2: How to Think Critically About Online Dog Training Advice

In Part 1, we explored how social media trainers have gained massive influence despite offering advice that’s often unqualified, outdated, or ethically questionable. Now, in…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

Part 1: The Rise of Influencer Trainers and the Dangers of Quick-Fix Advice

In the world of dog training, the digital age has brought a wave of visibility, accessibility, and unfortunately, misinformation. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

In recent years, the field of animal training has experienced a paradigm shift—one that emphasizes cooperation, cognition, and communication over compliance. This shift is perhaps most profound when observed in the training of non-domesticated species, such…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

In the world of dog training, lure-based techniques—using treats or toys to guide dogs into desired behaviours—have long been a go-to strategy. They offer seemingly fast results and are relatively easy for new trainers to implement.…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

When people think about dog training, they often picture a handler giving a cue, the dog responding, and then a treat being delivered. The reward moment tends to steal the spotlight. But what happens after the…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

The Psychology of Dog Behaviour: Why Empathy Feels So Natural

From a psychological perspective, dogs’ empathetic behaviours are likely rooted in the bond they share with their human companions. This bond is reinforced through positive reinforcement,…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

Dogs have long been considered man's best friend, not just for their loyalty, but for their profound ability to tune into human emotions. Whether it’s offering comfort when you’re sad or staying close during moments of…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

The bond between humans and dogs stands as one of the most enduring and profound interspecies relationships in human history. From ancient hunting companions to modern-day emotional support animals, dogs have evolved alongside us, forging a…

By Gaby Dufresne-Cyr, CBT-FLE

Most experienced dog trainers understand that effective training goes beyond conditioning—it requires trust. While we can train behaviours through classical or operant conditioning, the absence of a secure attachment often leads to a plateau in learning…