Recent Kinship articles by Karen B. London, PhD, CAAB, CPDT-KA

If one hand isn’t petting a fuzzy dog belly, what are you doing?

First of all, it’s not your fault.

Even if your dog is injured and can't exercise, you can still keep them entertained. Here's how.

Chasing equals bullying, rolling over equals submission, and more untruths debunked here.

Teach your pup a perfect recall so you can be sure they will come back, no matter what.

And save your skin.

For better dog photos, focus on your pup’s natural behaviors.

Is your dog getting the necessary 10 to 12 hours a day?

They are giving dolphins a run for their money in the smart department.

Remember, it’s not your fault, no matter what anyone says.

Not everything you're told about taking care of dogs is true.

Dog lovers need to get their hands on Lili Chin’s latest book, Dogs of the World.

Training them to roll over is useless—and other falsehoods.

Don’t panic—there is hope.

And what you can do about it.

They are your preferred date, after all.

Keep your dog from pulling on their leash, counter surfing, stealing socks, and more.

Number 6 will probably surprise you.

Tethering can help your energetic little angel chill out.

And what they need.

Animal behaviorist Karen London on how the time change will affect your cat or dog.

It’s a reflex to yell “no,” but it’s not the best option.

And feel more connected to you.

One doesn’t have to be the loneliest number when it comes to your dog.

Some things definitely get lost in translation.

What to do when you don’t feel the close bond you want.

Avoid boredom when cooped up inside all winter.

The answer to your obedience questions—right there on your phone.

It's definitely a thing.

They know what they are doing when they “cry” for food.

Even more proof they’re your baby. 

She is watching your every move.

And they’ll thank you for it.

Have we gone too far with this Halloween dog costume thing?

You may have wondered if you're the one causing the problem.

Your dog knows when they want fun and games, but it’s important you understand. Here’s why.

Turns out, even experts have a hard time defining these terms.

Jack-o’-lantern not required.

Here are all the way your kitty is trying to tell you they’re hurting.

No, cats don’t always land on their feet.

Time to whip out The Notebook for a little doggie movie night.

Fill up that cup, then come back for the refills—the dogs are counting on you.

A behaviorist’s take on what the Netflix documentary gets right (and a couple things it gets wrong).

It's time to reframe the situation.

One more thing to talk about with your therapist.

How to elevate your pup’s experience with one of the best enrichment toys out there.

Animal behaviorist Dr. Karen B. London on how to strengthen your pet-parent bond.

Pro tips for boosting the confidence of a scaredy-cat dog.

Turns out, adolescence isn’t just tough for humans—it can be hard on dogs, too.

The internet has a lot to tell you about your new addition. Here’s what’s actually true.

Research finds that your pup can smell when you’ve been doom-scrolling, and they get bummed out.

Yes! Shelters are full of good, grown-up doggos. Here’s how to find the perfect match.

Here’s how you can train your stubborn cat to do one of their least-favorite things.

Even a small amount of quality time makes a huge difference to shelter pups.

Time for some screen-time ground rules, pups.

Two words: Endless entertainment.

Especially if you pet them.

Fireworks and thunderstorms aren’t the only things that make them say, “No, thanks!”

They aren’t exactly CPAs, but they can probably tell you which piggy bank has more coins in it.

As a behaviorist, the South Dakota governor's actions horrify me for several reasons.

Here’s some advice as you struggle to make this hard decision.

Having an older, wiser dog around can be a big plus.

There’s a big difference between a dog smiling and showing their teeth.

It is powerful enough, even for the tough cases, and it is the best choice—here’s why. 

The “I’m just a baby” TikTok sound definitely applies here.

Take it slow. This process should never feel like speed-dating.

 A new study found that kids, especially young girls, benefit from having a pup.

They are the cutest little shadow.

Forget everything you think you know about baby cats.

Happy news: Pups can help support your (or your kid’s) everyday needs.

And why you deserve a pat on the back for indulging them.

The connection between people and dogs is the stuff of legend.

How the “love hormone” oxytocin connects us with our pups.

Keep track of all their fun phases with these guidelines.

Your little cutie is growing up in many ways—look out for these big stages as they do.

You need a break sometimes, and your dog is ready (and willing!) to take one with you.

Here’s why dogs know who they are more by smell than by sight.

It’s adorable, but there are actual reasons behind this behavior.

And why stress could be to blame. Your spoiled baby, stressed? Unfortunately, yes.

Everything you need to know about the difficult task of medicating a cat.

Snow days are fun—until your pup needs to do their thing outside.

Using these tips, your skittish dog will warm up to you.

If your dog growls when you get near their food or toys, read this right now.

Make sure your pup doesn’t “decorate” your tree.

Make this time of year a little less stressful for the both of you.

When your dog growls, they’re expressing their emotions. A study found that you’ll likely be able to understand what they’re feeling.

Dog trainer Karen B. London promises you’re not doomed to be pulled down the street forever.

How to re-housetrain a dog of any age.

Here are some tips for fitting training into your action-packed schedule.

Because nobody wants your pup eating the host’s charcuterie platter.

Set your pup up for success.

Reduce the stress of veterinary visits — for you and your pup.

Expert advice for people with dogs who jump, bark, and generally go nuts when people come over.

A few things to consider before expanding your fam by four more paws.

Because your pup is not too proud to beg.

If you’re trapped indoors on a bad weather day, these activities will keep your pup entertained.

If your cat still approaches you with a figurative arched eyebrow of skepticism, try these tricks to put them at ease.

Don’t worry; it’s just a phase!

Consent isn’t just for humans. Here’s how to respond when the answer isn’t so simple.

There’s a lot more to it than sniffing each other’s butts.

It’s important to remember that dogs are individuals, so training isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Your dog may understand other languages better than you think, according to a new study.

If your dog tries to scarf down literally everything in sight, you need this advice.

New research shows that chewing (toys, not shoes) reduces stress in dogs left home alone.

What to expect when your perfect puppy hits that unruly stage.

Why regular exercise can mean a less destructive dog and a happier you.

Here are the pros and cons of having a feline sleeping buddy.

Dog behaviorist Karen B. London’s 7 tips to help get your parked pet moving.

In multidog households, time apart can be a game changer.

There are pros and cons of sleeping with your dog — for both of you.

Animal behaviorist Karen B. London on how to create great escapes for your cat without leaving home.

A cat’s paw preference can give you insight into their temperament, behavior, and emotions.

It’s a personal preference, but here are the pros and cons.

This popular training technique isn’t just for dogs. Here’s how you can use it for your cat.

Is there a green-eyed monster hiding in that adorable ball of fluff?

Your kitty’s an explorer. Just keep their expeditions indoors.

And how you can encourage them to cover up after doing their business.

People have opinions about this cat toy. Here’s what you need to know.

New trends we can totally get behind.

With patience and positive reinforcement, you can do a lot to make up for lost time with socialization.

Research shows that little dogs may feel the need to scent mark more frequently than big dogs.

The author and artist uses informative (and freakin’ adorable) images to teach cat parents everything about kitty communication.

And how to change this.

It takes some patience (shocker), but it can be done.

Research finds why dogs may suddenly become super sensitive to sounds.

Step one: Never put your face close to theirs.

Basics of the tug game and how to troubleshoot common problems.

Do these things to help your pup (and your guests) feel chill.

Move over, pups. This is a cat’s game, too.

Keep these two words in mind: Start now.

Behaviorist Karen London shares her list of must-have toys for dogs.

Upgrading your pup’s recall training from accidental to intentional.

Your senior dog might move slower these days, but that doesn’t mean they can’t learn new things.

Social interaction — aka praise — works, too. Who doesn’t like that?

Plus 6 stylish slow-feed dog bowls.

Behavior correction, Mary Poppins style: Turn a job into a game.

In between cuddle sessions, work on these eight basic cues with your pup.

Why you should choose your words wisely.

Cue the Schoolhouse Rock! because learning can be fun.

People, let me tell you ’bout (your cat’s) best friend.

How to teach your pup to play nice.

Don’t worry: It’s normal to feel sad or anxious after welcoming a new puppy into your life.

Turns out, they can experience pretty complex emotions.

Turns out, cats have made medical breakthroughs simply by being...cats.

It turns out, dogs know a useless instruction when they hear it.

A recent study breaks down the difference.

This body language is not as simple as you probably think.

This study says it’s actually less about what’s in their DNA and more about what’s on it.

You want to sleep, your cat wants to party. Here’s how to deal.

According to a new study, cats know what their parents’ facial expressions mean. Just, uh, FYI.

Here are some simple steps to pry your pup away from that one spot in the yard they’re obsessed with.

For some dogs, it’s not as simple as just throwing a ball.

Well-trained dogs have more freedom (and more fun).

Your dog might not know your name. Don’t take offense; just play this game.

Persuasive strategies to convince your S.O. they do want a dog.

Your cat deserves to play. You deserve to walk away unscathed.

7 signs your pup and their pal have BFF potential.

OK, OK, don’t come for us. We know dogs and kids are very different to raise, but this study finds they respond to different parenting styles in similar ways.

A “sniffari” gives your dog a chance to be the boss.

According to animal behaviorist Karen London, using a more specific terms like “biddable” or “bombproof” can help you better understand your dog.

Keep the faith; you can fix this pee-action.

Bow down, puppers. It’s time to play.

A guide to their not-so-secret tells.

(Mis)labeling behaviors does more harm than good.

Tips to get your cat to quit eating your greens.

Thanks, they hate it.

No longer associate feeding time with growling time.

Boundaries, folks. Boundaries.

Nope, an animal behaviorist confirms it’s cool.

Why adopting two kittens may be easier (and better for them) than adopting one.

A few minutes — or even a few steps — are all you need to add joy to your dog’s day.

Not all fearful dogs have been mistreated.

Between actual cats, people.

Also called the “propeller wag” or “helicopter tail”, this behavior is a surefire way to tell that a dog is happy.

Double the trouble or double the fun?

They’ll be doing ollies in no time.

Surprise: It doesn’t always mean they’re happy.

Most dogs love walking, but some love chaos a little bit more.

Your dog’s wag and paw preference say a lot about their personality.

There’s no time like the present, according to your pet.

There is a right and wrong way.

Despite plenty of reasons to get mad, an animal behaviorist says dogs rarely express real anger.

Chase? Wrestle? Tug-o-war? Find out which are fair game.

Don’t hit pause on your pet’s playtime – these solo activities will help 9-5 fly by for them.

Don’t blame the dog — instead, figure out how to help them succeed.

Which one is yours?

Hint: they can’t see.

How to teach your dog to enjoy, not destroy, their toys.

Weirdly, this is what it’s called when your dog “raises their hackles.” And here’s why they do it...

How to get your pet to stop chewing on inedibles from clothes to couches.

(And your own, while you’re at it.)

What to do when your best-laid training plans are sabotaged.

Go beyond the basics.

Your dog loathes moving, too. These tips will make it easier on everyone.

Why pups' behavior may change when you’re expecting.

Tips on what to do if a dog chases you.

Research indicates yes, so why is your large pup still laying on top of you?

Keep you and your dog safe in case of a dog fight emergency.

Enrich your dog’s life by doing what comes naturally.

Spider-man actor adores his Pitty Tessa and is a huge advocate for animal adoption.

Help! Should I take my young dog to the dog park for “socialization”?

Why relationships change in multi-dog households.

Stop your dog from digging up your favorite plants with expert advice from animal behaviorist Karen London, PhD.

Study shows why some dogs choose to be friendly after a fight.

This little-known disease can cause big problems for pups in the Pacific Northwest.

Using platforms are favorites with pro dog trainers—here’s why you should add them to your training to-do list.

A fascination with lights and shadows is common in high-energy dogs — but it can develop into obsessive-compulsive disorder if it gets out of hand.

Spoiler alert: it’s more than just cute.

What to do when your dog barks at everything from other cars to people.

When your dog won’t climb stairs, take training one step at a time.

It's the one food most dogs can't stand. Here's why — plus, how to use their dislike of citrus to your advantage.

Or are they just peacefully resting? Behaviorist Karen London explains how to tell the difference.

Not counting how fun they are to watch.

People do this in many ways, and some are safer than others.

Save time on boring tasks and spend it enjoying your dog

Pro Karen London, PhD shares the most common dog training errors and how to correct them.

Who knew this was something to worry about?

Physical exercise isn’t the only way to stimulate your dog—engaging their mind works, too.

It can be a difficult, heart-wrenching decision — this advice can help.

Why do some dogs seem to lose their minds when a truck goes by?

How to help a howling dog turn down the volume (or even hit the off button).

Behaviorist Karen London talks about why snout shaking is an awkward way to say hello to a dog.

Many pet parents share information at the dog park, but is the information always accurate?

Is there anything more annoying than a dog who won’t stop whining? Here’s what to do about it.

Your dog’s sense of direction changes with the Earth’s magnetic fields, influencing their orientation when pooping and acting as an internal compass.

How to get your pup and the mail carrier to be friends.

Help! I’ve just taken in a foster dog—what do I do next?

Tips on how to train your dog to go down stairs.

The two animals are close relatives — but that doesn't mean they'll play nice.

A viral video gives new meaning to being on the fence.

Get ready for one of Hollywood’s best buddy stories.

Don’t just assume that your dog’s golden years should be spent quietly relaxing — they could be gaming.

Chewie is the space co-pilot we all need.

Is your dog guilty of this offense?

Dogs show a bias against unhelpful people.

Learn why these red beams of light are bad for dogs.

Beyond more puppy love and snuggle time.

Does your dog untangle themselves from a leash?

It’s a good day to be a dog.

Four signs your puppy is ready for a nap.

Unlike many other animals, dogs can handle new things in stride.

There are plenty of benefits to teaching your dog this cute trick.

Study says dogs do share and they’re more generous with those they know.

How is the experience of having a large dog different than that of having a small dog?

Is the term “prey drive” correct terminology or jargon?

Is your dog showing empathy? Or just plain annoyance?

Beware of dogs who are silent, stealthy aggressors.

Experts agree: breed doesn’t have anything to do with it.

What to do when your dog barks at the men in your life.