Paws for Learning

Dog Gone Good Bermuda’s Training & Behavior Blog

What You Should Know About Aggression in Dogs, Part Two

What You Should Know About Aggression in Dogs, Part Two

Aggression in dogs is often misunderstood, mislabeled, and oversimplified. In Part Two of this series, Amy Terceira explains why behavior is never random, why reactivity is often not aggression, why sudden aggression needs immediate veterinary attention, and why context matters when evaluating canine behavior. This article helps dog guardians better understand aggression through a compassionate, evidence-based lens.

read more
I am Not a Pack Leader

I am Not a Pack Leader

Do you really need to be your dog’s “pack leader”? Absolutely not. In this post, Amy Terceira explains why outdated dominance and alpha theories are not only wrong, but potentially harmful. Learn why dogs need safety, understanding, and advocacy—not control. Learn how force-free, positive reinforcement training creates healthier behavior and stronger relationships.

read more
How I Keep My Dogs at a Healthy Weight

How I Keep My Dogs at a Healthy Weight

Can you use food in training without causing weight gain? Absolutely. In this post, Amy Terceira shares how she keeps her dogs at a healthy weight as a reward-based trainer—from limiting extra calories and choosing tiny, healthy treats to using exercise, play, and real-life rewards. She also explains how weight and underlying health issues can affect behavior, making this a must-read for dog guardians who want happy, healthy dogs.

read more
What Dogs Need to Thrive, Part 2

What Dogs Need to Thrive, Part 2

What do dogs really need to live happy, healthy, well-adjusted lives? In Part 2 of this canine wellbeing series, Amy Terceira explores key factors that shape a dog’s quality of life—from early puppy socialization and understanding body language to quality time, grooming, better breeding, and seeking professional help when behavior challenges arise.

read more
What Dogs Need to Thrive, Part 1

What Dogs Need to Thrive, Part 1

What does your dog really need to be happy, healthy, and well-behaved? It goes far beyond walks and treats. In Part 1 of this canine wellbeing series, certified trainer Amy Terceira breaks down the essential foundations—medical care, diet, enrichment, choice, safety, and stress reduction—that every dog needs to truly thrive. Because when their needs are met, behavior tends to improve greatly.

read more
6 Costly Mistakes when Getting a Puppy

6 Costly Mistakes when Getting a Puppy

Thinking about getting a puppy or just brought one home? Don’t let common mistakes derail your puppy’s development. Bermuda based trainer, Amy Terceira, reveals 6 costly errors new puppy parents make—from overlooking genetics and missing the critical 14-week socialization window to ignoring stress signals and stopping training too soon. Learn the science-backed approach to raising a confident, happy, well-adjusted dog.

read more
4 changes I’ve made with my puppy clients

4 changes I’ve made with my puppy clients

Puppy training has evolved—and so has Dog Gone Good Bermuda’s approach. Certified trainer Amy Terceira shares 4 crucial changes she’s made with puppy clients, from prioritizing enrichment and early socialization to respecting puppies’ emotions and acknowledging that crates aren’t for every dog. Discover the science-backed, consent-based methods that set puppies up for lifelong success.

read more
Does Your Dog Really Need Obedience?

Does Your Dog Really Need Obedience?

How important is obedience training for your dog? It’s not that important. There are better things to focus on. Certified trainer Amy Terceira explains why focusing on your dog’s emotions, needs, and well-being, can create happier, healthier dogs than traditional obedience. Learn the force-free approach that prioritizes your dog’s feelings and builds lasting trust.

read more