 These days, we have so many options when it comes to feeding our dogs. Each with their own marketed benefits, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So, how do you decide what to nourish your dog with? At Instinct Canine Training, we believe that supporting your dog’s health with a raw food diet is the best way to provide optimal nutrition and vitality for your companion. Embracing a raw food diet is more than just a trend, though it’s certainly increased in popularity in recent years. Keep reading to uncover the benefits of raw feeding. Why Feed Raw?You’ve probably come across the phrase “biologically appropriate diet” when discussing dog food, but what does it really mean? Simply put, a biologically appropriate diet is one that closely mimics what dogs and wolves would naturally eat in the wild. We’re not talking about your dog chasing down a wild elk on their morning walk (though that sounds exciting!) Instead, a biologically appropriate diet aims to provide your dog with the nutrients that make sense for their digestive systems, instincts, and overall health. Dogs, like their wolf ancestors, are designed to eat meat, bones, and organs — not grains, corn, or fillers that find their way into many processed kibbles. By going raw, you’re giving your dog a chance to eat like the predator they are at heart. And with that comes some serious perks! The Benefits of Raw More Than Just Smaller Poops (Though, That’s a Bonus!) Feeding raw reduces health issues, improves coat quality, and makes for smaller, less stinky bowel movements. But there’s so much more to it. Let’s dig a little deeper into why raw can make such a difference:
Now, here’s where it gets really interesting: a raw food diet can promote balanced energy levels in dogs. One of the most overlooked benefits of raw feeding is how it affects a dog’s energy levels throughout the day. A typical kibble diet often contains grains, which break down into sugar in your dog’s system, creating a sugar high And what follows a sugar high? A sugar crash. That erratic burst of energy, followed by the lethargy that makes your dog look like they partied too hard the night before, isn’t just quirky behaviour. It’s a direct result of their diet. Just like in humans, food is fuel, and frankly put, garbage in is garbage out. Raw diets, by contrast, provide a steady release of energy. Picture it this way: kibble is like taking your dog on a rollercoaster — big highs and big lows, often at inconvenient times (cue the 8 PM zoomies). A raw diet, though, is more like a scenic drive through the hills. No dramatic peaks or crashes, just a smooth, steady flow of energy. It’s like the dog version of skipping the sugary breakfast cereal and going for a balanced omelette instead. You’ll see a more even-keeled, calmer dog. This steady energy can be a game changer for dogs with behavioural problems. While raw food won’t magically solve all behaviour issues (you still need to put in the training work,) it can act as an important aid, helping to level out that erratic energy and make your training efforts more effective. Feeding Frequency: Dogs Aren’t Grazers When it comes to feeding frequency, some pet parents make the mistake of leaving food out all day, also known as “free feeding.” Let’s be clear: dogs aren’t cows. They don’t graze. They’re hunters, designed to feast on a large meal, when available, and then move on with life. Think about it — in the wild, wolves don’t have a buffet spread available 24/7. They hunt, eat, and rest. The same logic applies to our domesticated dogs. Their metabolism is wired to handle larger meals at designated times, not to snack all day long like they’ve got a standing invitation to a party platter. Feeding your adult dog twice a day (puppies get a pass with three meals) aligns with their natural metabolism. And, believe it or not, it’s completely normal for dogs to occasionally fast themselves. They might skip a meal or even a full day of eating, and unless there are worrying symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, this behaviour is perfectly fine. In fact, it’s just their inner wolf taking a day off. The Science Behind Raw Feeding and Behaviour If you really want to get into the science, studies have shown that diets high in protein and fat (and lower in carbohydrates) help stabilize glucose levels in dogs. Without the sugar spikes and subsequent crashes caused by carbohydrate-heavy meals, dogs on raw diets tend to exhibit more balanced, predictable energy levels throughout the day (source). This can be especially useful for dogs prone to anxiety or hyperactivity. Again, while the raw diet won’t "fix" these issues, the even energy levels it promotes can support training efforts, helping dogs remain calmer and more focused. Feed Raw, Feed Smart Feeding your dog a raw diet isn't about jumping on the latest pet food trend — it’s about giving them a biologically appropriate diet that aligns with their natural instincts and needs. You’ll notice the benefits not just in their shiny coat and smaller poops (though that’s nice too) but in their overall health, behaviour, and energy levels. So, the next time you’re considering your dog’s food, remember: they’re not meant to graze like a cow or ride a sugar rollercoaster. They’re a wolf at heart, and feeding raw lets them eat like one. And, let’s be honest — anything that makes scooping poop easier is a win in our book! Just getting started on your raw food journey? Our friends at Back to the Bone have a wide selection of raw food brands and knowledgeable staff who can help guide you in the right direction for your dog’s unique needs. If you’re in the Burlington or Oakville areas, check them out! At Instinct Canine, we always encourage our clients to choose what's best for them and their dog when it comes to food choices. We believe in honouring your preferences and comfort level in selecting the ideal diet for you and your dog. A raw food diet aligns closely in pricing with a high-quality kibble diet, offering you flexibility without compromise. Trust your instincts and know that you have the power to make informed decisions that benefit both you and your beloved pet. And, if you have any questions on how to begin your raw food journey, we're here to help! Sources: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/diets-diabetic-dogs https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/best-dog-foods/diabetes/ https://www.aaha.org/resources/2018-aaha-diabetes-management-guideline-for-dogs-and-cats/dietary-management/ https://rawznaturalpetfood.com/dog-diabetes-diet/ https://www.darwinspet.com/resources/types-of-dog-food/diabetic.html  A message from our pack leader, Anna MarieDear Instinct Canine Training Pack Members, As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences and milestones that have shaped both my personal growth and the growth of Instinct Canine Training. I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your dedication and support. ICT wouldn’t be what it is today without you. I am so grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me, kind words you share and referrals. I look forward to continuing this journey with you and your dogs in the coming year. Professionally, one of the highlights of my year was attending a seminar with Steven Lindsay in St. Charles, Missouri. It was my first time flying alone, and I’m so grateful for the amazing new friends I made. But the most special part of the trip was the evening I spent in conversation with Steven himself. To sit and talk with such a brilliant man about life, dogs, and everything in between was an experience I will never forget. Oh, and Steven also introduced me to a new beer—Yuengling—which was a fun and memorable part of our chat! Sadly, I can’t get it in Canada, so I guess I’ll need to head back to the States again to return his kind gesture and buy him one! I also had the opportunity to attend a training workshop with Joel Silverman, Lary Krohn, and Jay Jack. I chose to purchase a working spot with Jay Jack, and it did not disappoint! I learned so much about the art of playing with our dogs and how to address reactive behaviours with a new approach to corrections. What I found most powerful was how it focused on addressing emotional states, without harshness or punitive actions, which I look forward to incorporating more into my work. It wasn’t all smooth sailing this year, though. In May, our facility encountered severe flooding that caused some headaches, but it ended up prompting some renovations I had been meaning to do. The space is now set up exactly the way I had dreamed, which has been incredibly rewarding. ICT also saw team members spread their wings to pursue individual goals, and we’ve welcomed new faces. Change is not always easy, but owning and operating a business comes with challenges and we embrace each one knowing we have an opportunity to change the lives of dogs, handlers, and the community we serve. It’s not always smooth sailing, but our mission drives us forward every day. The most important accomplishment this year; however, was gaining my official title as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (DTTA-CPDT) under the mentorship of Karen Laws. This two and a half year journey pushed me to expand my knowledge and sharpen my skills. I am forever grateful to Karen for her guidance and support throughout this process. I was also honoured to lead most of our annual Fall Training Summit, where I had the pleasure of teaching other trainers the techniques from my four-week Reactive Rover course. As we say goodbye to 2024 and look forward to the year ahead, I’d like to share a quote from Maya Angelou: “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” This year has been a journey of learning, growth, and connection, and I encourage you to enter the new year with the same spirit of resilience. Every challenge is an opportunity, and together, we will continue to grow and thrive! From myself and the rest of the ICT team,wishing you all a joyful Christmas and holiday season filled with love, laughter, and of course, lots of time spent with your beloved dogs! It is through them that we find the true meaning of the holiday spirit: to embrace the present with gratitude, love, and a few good treats. Warmest wishes to you and yours, Anna Marie, Mia and Keziah Instinct Canine Training Holiday Wishes from our Day Train & Play Program DogsWarmest wishes for the holiday season ahead from Anna Marie and the dogs from our Day Train & Play program!
 The holidays are a wonderful time to gather with loved ones and celebrate the end of the year. With joy and excitement filling the air, all the hustle and bustle can really shake up our usual routines, and our dogs can feel it too!
I often have clients come to me after the holidays saying, "My dog has started doing X behaviour and we don't know why." Sound familiar? If you make a change to your dog’s daily routine, rest assured that new behaviours are normal! And here’s why: many dogs are sensitive to changes in their environment. When they lose the structure of their comfortable daily routine, they may take on new behaviours as a coping mechanism to adapt to their changing environment. And guess what? It comes out in new behaviours—like jumping, barking, or just generally losing their cool. So, as we head into this holiday season, here are a few tactics that can help you help your dog navigate the change and keep their stress levels (and yours) in check! Tip #1: Stick to Your Routine as Much as Possible We all know the holiday season tends to be a whirlwind of extra activity—more visitors, different schedules, louder noises, and, of course, more distractions. With this, one of the best things you can do for your dog is to try and maintain as much of their regular routine as possible. Dogs thrive on consistency. Feeding times, potty breaks, and exercise should remain predictable. If you’re someone who likes to take a stroll every morning at 8 a.m., try to stick to that routine—even if you’re running around doing last-minute holiday shopping or preparing the house for company. I like to encourage dog owners to add these events into their calendar or to set reminders to ensure their dogs maintain a routine as much as possible. Amongst the activity of the holidays, a peaceful walk with your dog is a wonderful way for you to destress, too! Tip #2: The "Place" Command is Your Dog's Safe Haven The "place" command is one of the most effective tools for helping your dog handle the holiday season with ease. Think of it like an "invisible crate"—your dog has the freedom to move, but they must stay within the boundaries of their designated spot until released. Unlike a "stay," which requires your dog to remain in one position, the "place" command allows them the freedom to sit, stand, or lie down, but not to leave the designated space. The beauty of the "place" command is that it becomes a safe retreat for your dog during times of stress or chaos. For instance, when guests arrive or when you're preparing for the holiday dinner, your dog can go to their "place" and relax in peace. This gives them a break from the overstimulation of the festivities, providing a space where they can feel calm and secure. If you want to teach your dog the "place" command and transform their response to holiday chaos, I’d love to help! It’s a valuable skill that gives both you and your dog the ability to enjoy the holiday season together—without the stress. Connect with our team who can help you create a relaxed space for your dog this holiday season! Tip #3: Lick Mats and Scent Searches as Calming Activities Now, I know you’ve likely seen all the cute holiday ads for dog toys and goodies, but there are some seriously effective ways to keep your dog calm during the hustle and bustle of the season. One of my favorites is using lick mats. These mats are an excellent way to engage your dog’s mind and calm them down. There are several options you can use on these mats. The easy one is peanut butter, but you can also try mashed banana, applesauce, pumpkin puree, raw food, or canned dog food—get creative and mix a few of your dog’s favourites! Once you spread it on the mat, consider freezing it for an extra-long-lasting activity. Voilà—your dog will be happily licking away, occupied and calm. Another fantastic option is scent work. If you’ve ever wondered how to engage your dog mentally while burning off that extra holiday energy, scent detection is your answer. Hide some treats around the house and let your dog use their nose to find them. Not only does it provide great mental stimulation, but it also helps reduce stress. The concentration and focus needed for sniffing are exactly what your dog needs to take their mind off the busy environment around them. If you find your dog loves the activity of scent work, we have two scent detection courses to further explore this fun and engaging work! Trust us, they’re a heck of a lot of fun. 4. Tip #4: Guests? Let's Make Sure the Greeting is Calm With additional guests coming and leaving your home, your dog might be extra excited to greet visitors. To help manage this, be sure to set your dog up to successfully greet people calmly. Teach them to stay in their “place” command until it’s their turn to meet the guests. This prevents them from rushing to the door every time it opens and keeps the atmosphere relaxed. Remember, the more calm and collected you are, the more your dog will feel comfortable. A calm owner leads to a calm dog (most of the time, anyway—dogs are still dogs!) Tip #5: Keep Your Dog's Mind and Body Engaged The holiday season is busy, so it is important to still prioritize your dog’s exercise needs. Just like you would ensure your kids get their daily dose of playtime, your dog needs theirs too. Whether it’s a quick walk after dinner or a good play session, keeping their body and mind engaged will help burn off any pent-up energy and give them something to focus on. After all, a tired dog is usually a well-behaved and less-stressed dog. Wrapping It All Up Holiday stress is real—not just for you but for your dog too. By sticking to routines, utilizing calming tools like the “place” command, and offering mental and physical outlets, you can help your dog navigate the holiday excitement with ease. If all else fails, remember that dogs have a magical way of teaching us the importance of slowing down and enjoying the simple things—like a good lick mat or a game of “find the treats.” So this holiday season, let’s give our dogs a break from the stress of change and provide them with the tools to remain calm and collected, while enjoying the holiday festivities with the family! Happy holidays, and may your home be filled with both joy and well-behaved pups!  As a dog owner, the health and well-being of my companions, Mia and Keziah, are my top priorities. I want them to live as long as possible so that we can spend as much time together as possible. With my years of experience working in veterinary clinics and my background as an underwriter and claims adjuster for pet insurance, I've gained a deep understanding of pet health care. This knowledge has led me to question the necessity of certain vaccinations and explore the benefits of titre testing—a method that aligns more closely with my philosophy of natural care.
What is Titre Testing? Titre testing measures the presence of specific antibodies in the blood, helping us determine whether a dog is still protected against certain diseases. Instead of automatically vaccinating, titre testing provides a look into a dog’s immunity levels, allowing us to make informed decisions about their health care. This approach feels gentler, especially for my dog Mia, who has environmental allergies. I believe that we should aim to avoid overloading their systems when it isn't necessary. Before making any health decisions, I cannot stress the importance of working with a veterinarian you trust. I have the pleasure of being Dr. Honda’s client (of South Side Pet Hospital) and was pleased to have her provide professional insights on the topic of titre testing. Anna Marie’s Questions for Dr. Honda: What is a titre test? A titre is a measure of antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are produced in the body either from vaccination or, in some cases, infection. No, in dogs we can measure titres for Distemper, Parvovirus and Rabies. In cats, you can check for Calicivirus, Herpesvirus, Panleukopenia, and Rabies. Is there a titre test for all vaccines? No, in dogs we can measure titres for Distemper, Parvovirus and Rabies. In cats, you can check for Calicivirus, Herpesvirus, Panleukopenia, and Rabies. How often should we run a titre test, or how long does a vaccine provide protection? This is where things get more complicated: Antibody titres do not confer disease protection automatically. A higher titre might indicate protection, but a lower one might as well. A positive titre doesn't guarantee disease protection; just because there are antibodies in the blood doesn't mean they are effective. Titre levels have been set by diagnostic labs, but this is based on limited, older data and comes with a disclaimer that it may not be sufficient. Dr. Honda referenced the 2022 AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines: “…, at best, the determination of “protective titres” has been based on limited data. These data were thoroughly reviewed 20 years ago. Nothing more substantive has become available since then. ELISA-based in-clinic antibody detection tests have been available for CPV and CDV for more than 20 years. HI and VN tests, respectively, were used as “gold standards” to determine their sensitivity and specificity, as it relates to a “protective titre.” Commercial ELISAs have been applied in shelter populations outside of the laboratory and further compared with HI and VN tests. Such applications have provided no further basis for a determination of “protective titres,” primarily because the titres or amounts of antibody were not correlated with clinical outcomes. Recognizing these limitations, no values for “protective titres” are indicated in these guidelines, although some commercial laboratories will provide them.” “Altogether, a titre, almost regardless of the amount, is not necessarily indicative of protection or susceptibility. Rather, it is more complicated than that. Disease in the individual animal results from the interaction of host, pathogen, and environmental cofactors. It can be misleading to forecast an outcome on the basis of one cofactor: a titre. When should we choose titre testing over traditional vaccinations? You can titre if you want some idea if a pet might be protected, especially if vaccines might be high-risk (e.g., previous adverse reactions). However, take the information for what it is—you can't use it as a guarantee. Rabies titres might be required for international travel, but at home, only vaccination counts. Rabies titres are very expensive, so if a pet can't receive a Rabies vaccine, we can write a letter of exemption, but we need a good reason to do this; it's not a letter of convenience, but a true medical exemption. Is titre testing more expensive than routine vaccination? There is a Distemper/Parvo test I can run that is about $300. I don't recommend it unless there are no other options, as it only tells me what's going on at that point in time. If the pet isn't vaccinated, I have no idea how long it could have a protective titre and how often to check. The randomness can be costly and not very scientific! Vaccination for these diseases is much less expensive, very effective, and with boosters every three years, it is generally the better option. As a veterinarian, I will have a discussion with every pet owner to establish the best plan for their pet(s) that ensures they are adequately protected. If they can't have vaccines, we explore how to reduce the risks in their lives. Many people assume that if they come to the vet, they will be "forced" to vaccinate, but no one should ever feel that way. We always have a discussion together, assessing each pet's risks while considering the health and safety of the owner and the community around them. I really appreciate Dr. Honda for taking the time to respond to these questions and help us understand this care option in more depth. In addition to titre testing, I prioritize routine bloodwork for Mia and Keziah. This typically includes a complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry panel, which assess organ function (like liver and kidney health), electrolyte balance, and blood sugar levels. Establishing a solid baseline through blood work allows for quick identification of any potential issues down the line, ensuring that we stay proactive about their health. Regular veterinary visits are essential whether you choose to titre test or vaccinate your dog. I recommend taking dogs for overall check-ups at least once a year as part of your ongoing care routine. As they age, these visits should increase to twice a year to catch any health concerns early. I hope you found the information on titre testing and its benefits for natural care insightful! If this content is useful to someone you know, please consider sharing it with them.  Building a strong relationship with our dogs is not just about companionship; it forms the foundation for effective training and mutual understanding. Just like in human relationships, setting fair boundaries and expectations is crucial for a harmonious interaction. When we establish a relationship based on trust and respect, we create a framework where our dogs can learn what behaviours are appropriate and which ones are not. Trust Through Fair Boundaries In any relationship, boundaries are essential. They provide a clear structure for interaction and ensure that both parties understand what is expected of them. With our dogs, setting fair boundaries means guiding them gently but firmly towards desirable behaviours. When giving a command, it's important to do so clearly, with confidence. This means you're not asking your dog to do something; you're telling them! A strong bond is built when your dog looks to you for guidance, showing they trust your direction. If your dog doesn't follow the command, guide them into the position you asked for on the first try, ensuring clarity without needing a second attempt or treat. I always encourage clients to communicate with their dogs using the firm, fast, and fair method. By using the 3 F’s—Fast, Firm, and Fair—you can effectively guide your dog, building a strong and trusting bond. The Fast, Firm and Fair Method Fast: Timing is everything. When your dog doesn’t behave the way you want, respond quickly so they know exactly what you're addressing. This is true for both good and bad behaviour—catching the moment ensures your dog connects their actions with your response. If you're slow, they might not understand why you're stepping in. Firm: Communicating with confidence and clarity is key. I don’t negotiate or plead with my dog; I tell them what to do. Being firm means setting expectations, not asking for them. Your dog should know that when you give a command, you mean it. It's about being clear and confident without crossing into harshness—firm doesn’t mean unfair, just no room for confusion. Fair: Fairness is context-dependent. I won’t correct a dog for not following a command they haven’t learned, but if my dog knows "sit" and ignores me, I will follow through and guide them into the position. There’s no option for a second try or treat at that moment. Being fair means balancing the consequence with the situation—like at work, where your boss would correct a small mistake without extreme measures, but a serious offense would lead to more significant action. By keeping things proportionate, you build trust and a healthy relationship with your dog. Correcting Behaviour with Compassion Correcting behaviour is another aspect where a strong relationship comes into play. As a trainer who works with a variety of dogs, it is not my place to correct your dog because there is no established relationship between us. Correction, when necessary, should come from someone the dog trusts and respects—usually the owner. There are exceptions to this rule, particularly in situations where I perceive a danger to others. In such cases, I may step in, but this typically involves dogs that are confident enough to handle the correction without it damaging their trust. It saddens me to hear from clients who have previously worked with trainers who lacked the patience to guide them through the training process and instead resorted to harsh corrections. Often, these corrections are delivered to nervous dogs who are already struggling with anxiety. The result is heartbreaking: a dog who is "shut down," cowering in fear and unwilling to work. This approach not only damages the dog’s trust but also hinders their ability to learn and grow. Play as a Relationship Building and Bonding Tool Play is a powerful tool for building relationships with our dogs. Games like tug-of-war and fetch not only provide physical exercise but also teach important lessons in impulse control and obedience. Before engaging in play, it's beneficial to ensure that our dogs demonstrate self-control and stop when asked. This reinforces their understanding of boundaries and enhances their responsiveness to commands during playtime. Looking Forward: The Importance of Continuous Learning As a dog trainer, I am constantly seeking new knowledge and techniques to improve my relationship with dogs. I am excited to attend a seminar this month focusing on play, where I hope to deepen my understanding of how play can further strengthen the bond between dogs and handlers. I will share my reflections in another post! A Lifelong Partnership By nurturing a strong relationship with our dogs, we cultivate loyalty and cooperation. A well-trained dog who respects boundaries is not only a joy to be around, but also a reliable companion. When dogs trust that we have their best interests at heart and will guide them safely, they are more willing to follow our lead. Ultimately, investing in our relationship with our dogs pays off in loyalty, obedience, and a deep bond that enriches both our lives. Building a relationship with our dogs based on trust, fair boundaries, and constructive play is not just about training; it's about fostering a partnership that lasts a lifetime. Found these tips helpful? Save this article to reference later, or send to someone who may find it useful! |
Meet the authorAnna Marie Stewart, DTTA-CPDT, is the owner and founder of Instinct Canine Training in Burlington, Ontario. Her passion and love of dogs is evident to anyone who works with her, and is an experienced trainer who works with a variety of clients to achieve a well-mannered dog. Categories
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