Dogs’ tendency to behave like dogs has become frowned upon these days – it is not uncommon that their barking, chewing, chasing, digging, jumping, growling, snarling and biting is labeled “abnormal.” Dogs are suspected to have psychological problems when in fact their only problem is that we routinely assign thoughts and intentions to our dogs which exist in our imagination only. Australian dog Trainer Sylvie Martin of Crosspaws delivers another unflinchingly clear vision of how we humans can greatly increase our own happiness as well as our dogs’ by better understanding and respecting the nature of our furry friends rather than constantly projecting human intentions onto their behaviors, which only leads to conflict and stress for both parties.

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Dog-dog aggression is something many dog owners deal with. Dog trainer and trainer educator, Kristi Benson, has written an eye-opening and extremely informative blog post on how to approach dog-dog aggression, which often depends on the type of aggression. Sometimes, nothing needs to be done. In other contexts, dogs may need training and behavior modification using modern, humane methods. Fear is one common reason for dog-dog aggression, and Kristi explains why using techniques to scare or hurt dogs has no place in the training of dog-aggressive dogs. We have effective, humane methods for modifying dog behavior in the 21st Century. There is no place for yelling, shock collars, prong collars, choke collars, swatting, leash jerks, or collar pops. These outdated aggressive techniques can actually make dog-aggressive dogs more aggressive.

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What do dogs need most from us? What does a roaming dog have to do with a baby picking a dirty lollipop from the floor and licking it? Dog trainer Kristi Benson tells the story of a client who has a roaming dog with characteristic humor and clarity (and clever analogies!). And in telling the tale, Kristi has an important message for all dog owners about what our dogs need most from us—something that is both free and also intensive. TIME.

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Have you ever considered how your dog’s happiness, health and behavior might be integrally connected to her degree of freedom? And how respecting a dog’s culture and identity may reduce stress and anxiety and allow your dog a greater sense of freedom and happiness? Australian dog trainer and behavior consultant, Sylvie Martin, lays out the case for more emotional, social and physical freedom for dogs, and gives us a glimpse at the current state of dogs’ freedom Down Under.

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