Articles by Karen B. London, PhD
Karen B. London, PhD
Karen B. London, Ph.D., is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist and Certified Professional Dog Trainer who specializes in working with dogs with serious behavioral issues, including aggression, and has also trained other animals including cats, birds, snakes, and insects. She writes the animal column for the Arizona Daily Sun and is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Northern Arizona University. She is the author of six books about training and behavior, including her most recent, Treat Everyone Like a Dog: How a Dog Trainer’s World View Can Improve Your Life.
![woman with dark hair lying in bed with striped cat, both asleep]()
behaviorShould Your Cat Sleep With You?
Here are the pros and cons of having a feline sleeping buddy.
Here are the pros and cons of having a feline sleeping buddy.
![Gray striped cat and white cat playing on cat tree.]()
behaviorAre Your Cats Playing or Is This a Full-On Scar Vs. Simba Fight?
A recent study breaks down the difference.
A recent study breaks down the difference.
Turns out, they can experience pretty complex emotions.
![Dog playing with orange ball toy at the beach on a sunny day]()
behaviorA Tail-Wagging Dog Isn’t Always a Happy Dog
This body language is not as simple as you probably think.
This body language is not as simple as you probably think.
![Two colorful Great Danes illustration.]()
behaviorEver Ask Your Dog “Why Are You Like This?” DNA Is the Answer — Kind Of
This study says it’s actually less about what’s in their DNA and more about what’s on it.
This study says it’s actually less about what’s in their DNA and more about what’s on it.
![Two Black women with curly hair laying on the grass with their senior dog laying between them]()
lifestyleTherapy Dogs Can Help You With Your ADHD
Happy news: Pups can help support your (or your kid’s) everyday needs.
Happy news: Pups can help support your (or your kid’s) everyday needs.
![White cat switching on lamp on couch]()
behavior | Why, Cat?!Why Does Your Cat Wake You Up at Night?
You want to sleep, your cat wants to party. Here’s how to deal.
You want to sleep, your cat wants to party. Here’s how to deal.
![Sad boxer rests on owners lap, dog doesn't want to be touched]()
behaviorDon’t Ignore These 9 Behavioral Signs That Your Dog Is in Pain
Animal behaviorist Karen B. London breaks down the silent ways your pet is trying to tell you they’re hurting.
Animal behaviorist Karen B. London breaks down the silent ways your pet is trying to tell you they’re hurting.
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behaviorYour Cat Hates It When You Frown
According to a new study, cats know what their parents’ facial expressions mean. Just, uh, FYI.
According to a new study, cats know what their parents’ facial expressions mean. Just, uh, FYI.
![Dog on leash sitting on a colorful street and looking attentive at their pet parent]()
behaviorYou — Yes, You — Can Get Your Dog to Pay Attention to You
Here are some simple steps to pry your pup away from that one spot in the yard they’re obsessed with.
Here are some simple steps to pry your pup away from that one spot in the yard they’re obsessed with.
![Dog playing fetch with tennis ball in long grass]()
For some dogs, it’s not as simple as just throwing a ball.
![Man hugging his fluffy white dog happily]()
lifestyleChemistry Between People and Pets Is Real (It’s Science)
How the “love hormone” oxytocin connects us with our pups.
How the “love hormone” oxytocin connects us with our pups.
![Couple hugs their merle Boxer]()
lifestyleYour Relationship With Your Dog Matters. Here’s How You Can Improve It
Animal behaviorist Dr. Karen B. London on how to strengthen your pet-parent bond.
Animal behaviorist Dr. Karen B. London on how to strengthen your pet-parent bond.
![illustration of multi-colored dogs]()
behaviorIs Your Dog Tricky to Train? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty
It’s important to remember that dogs are individuals, so training isn’t one-size-fits-all.
It’s important to remember that dogs are individuals, so training isn’t one-size-fits-all.
What to do when your new pup isn’t digging you.
![Trendy woman in a green coat walking her cute dog in a white jacket in public]()
Well-trained dogs have more freedom (and more fun).
![A kitten sneaking up on a laser pointer with big, interested eyes.]()
behaviorGet to the Point: Can Cats Play With Laser-Pointer Toys?
People have opinions about this cat toy. Here’s what you need to know.
People have opinions about this cat toy. Here’s what you need to know.
![Dog walker crossing a street with three dogs]()
Set your pup up for success.
![shaggy brown dog plays in the snow outside]()
lifestyle8 Activities That Keep You and Your Dog Out of the Snow
Tips to avoid boredom when cooped up during winter storms.
Tips to avoid boredom when cooped up during winter storms.
![A woman wearing a yellow headband and a white off-the-shoulder shirt with blue jeans and platform black flower boots kneeling next to her black Poodle mix dog on the lawn outside]()
behaviorHow to Teach Your Dog Your Name
Your dog might not know your name. Don’t take offense; just play this game.
Your dog might not know your name. Don’t take offense; just play this game.
It’s not all black and white.
![Dachshund dog sits between two people]()
lifestyleWhat to Do When Your Partner Doesn’t Want a Dog
Persuasive strategies to convince your S.O. they do want a dog.
Persuasive strategies to convince your S.O. they do want a dog.
![Sealyham Terrier and golden retriever playing in the grass]()
lifestyleShould You Get a Second Dog?
A few things to consider before expanding your fam by four more paws.
A few things to consider before expanding your fam by four more paws.
![Person with two small dogs that won't poop in snow]()
behavior3 Pro Tips for Getting Your Dog to “Go” in the Snow
Snow days are fun — until your pet needs to do their thing outside.
Snow days are fun — until your pet needs to do their thing outside.
![A kitten playing with a mouse cat toy.]()
behaviorHow to Keep Your Cat From Making You the Toy at Playtime
Your cat deserves to play. You deserve to walk away unscathed.
Your cat deserves to play. You deserve to walk away unscathed.
![Two mixed breed dogs, one white with brown spots and one black, both biting on a S-shaped teal chew toy int he grass outside]()
behaviorHow to Choose the Right Friend For Your Dog
7 signs your pup and their pal have BFF potential.
7 signs your pup and their pal have BFF potential.
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behaviorParenting a Dog Isn’t So Different From Raising a Kid, After All
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.
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 woman with curly black hair sitting in front of a dark purple and yellow backdrop while looking down affectionately at her two cats sitting on her lap]()
behavior7 Ways to Build Your Cat’s Trust in You
If your cat still approaches you with a figurative arched eyebrow of skepticism, try these tricks to put them at ease.
If your cat still approaches you with a figurative arched eyebrow of skepticism, try these tricks to put them at ease.
![Small striped kitten raising one paw to play with a feather while sitting on a bed]()
behaviorIs Your Cat a Righty or a Lefty?
A cat’s paw preference can give you insight into their temperament, behavior, and emotions.
A cat’s paw preference can give you insight into their temperament, behavior, and emotions.
![A brunnette woman petting her black cat sitting on her desk while she prepares to give him a pill]()
healthA Spoonful of Tuna Helps the Medicine Go Down
Everything you need to know about the difficult task of medicating a cat.
Everything you need to know about the difficult task of medicating a cat.
![Smiling veterinarian examining medical documents of a Bulldog standing on her examination table]()
health10 Tips to Give Your Dog a Blissful Vet Visit
Reduce the stress of veterinary visits — for you and your pup.
Reduce the stress of veterinary visits — for you and your pup.
![A little puppy Jack Russell terrier is smelling the grass in the park with red dog-collar.]()
lifestyleOn Your Next Walk, Let Your Pup Follow Their Nose
A “sniffari” gives your dog a chance to be the boss.
A “sniffari” gives your dog a chance to be the boss.
![A woman lying on the floor laughing with her dog.]()
behavior7 Ways to Describe Your Dog — Besides “Smart”
According to animal behaviorist Karen London, using a more specific terms like “biddable” or “bombproof” can help you better understand your dog.
According to animal behaviorist Karen London, using a more specific terms like “biddable” or “bombproof” can help you better understand your dog.
![Big dog says hello to a dinner guest sitting at the table]()
behavior | Ask a TrainerHow Can I Prevent My Dog From Getting Overly Excited When Guests Arrive?
Expert advice for people with dogs who jump, bark, and generally go nuts when people come over.
Expert advice for people with dogs who jump, bark, and generally go nuts when people come over.
![A dog resting its face on a dinner table.]()
5 tips for keeping your dog out of trouble on Thanksgiving.
![Illustration of a woman hugging a dog]()
behaviorIs That...Stress Your Dog Smells?
A new study finds that your pup can tell — er, smell — when you’ve been doom-scrolling.
A new study finds that your pup can tell — er, smell — when you’ve been doom-scrolling.
![A white and brown Jack Russel Terrier dog standing on a white wooden chair behind two stacked pumpkins on the chair with him]()
Jack-o’-lantern not required.
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lifestyleTo Cry Is Human — and Apparently Canine
Time to whip out The Notebook for a little doggy movie night.
Time to whip out The Notebook for a little doggy movie night.
![A Boston terrier hanging out in a teal blue chair]()
Keep the faith; you can fix this pee-action.
![Bernese Mountain Dog with tennis ball in his mouth play bowing in the grassy backyard]()
behaviorThe Universal Dog Signal That You’re Never Leaving the Park
Bow down, puppers. It’s time to play.
Bow down, puppers. It’s time to play.
![A woman kneeling down to pet a dog sitting in a pile of colorful leaves in the woods next to the dog's owner]()
behaviorCan I Pet Your Dog?
Consent isn’t just for humans. Here’s how to respond when the answer isn’t so simple.
Consent isn’t just for humans. Here’s how to respond when the answer isn’t so simple.
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A guide to their not-so-secret tells.
![Dog is biting his dog harness to take the dog for a walk]()
behaviorNobody Likes to Be Labeled — Especially Your Dog
(Mis)labeling behaviors does more harm than good.
(Mis)labeling behaviors does more harm than good.
- behavior
How to Stop Your Cat From Munching On All of Your Precious Plants
Tips to get your cat to quit eating your greens.
Tips to get your cat to quit eating your greens.
![A woman holding her dog close.]()
Thanks, they hate it.
![Owner serving dog food]()
behaviorYour Dog’s Food Aggression Isn’t Cute — Here’s How You Can Work On It
No longer associate feeding time with growling time.
No longer associate feeding time with growling time.
![A gray cat in a tan cat carrier]()
behaviorYour Cat Doesn’t Have to Hate Their Carrier
A behaviorist’s six surefire steps to training a cat to go in a carrier.
A behaviorist’s six surefire steps to training a cat to go in a carrier.
Boundaries, folks. Boundaries.
![A grey cat reaching for food on a table with its paw.]()
behaviorIs It Full Goblin-Mode Behavior for Your Cat to Play with Their Food?
Nope, an animal behaviorist confirms it’s cool.
Nope, an animal behaviorist confirms it’s cool.
![Woman in a grey t-shirt and black overalls holding a sad looking ginger kitten]()
behaviorOne Is the Loneliest Number: What to Know About Single Kitten Syndrome
Why adopting two kittens may be easier (and better for them) than adopting one.
Why adopting two kittens may be easier (and better for them) than adopting one.
![Owner and black dog running outside against blue backdrop]()
behavior5 Running Games to Play With Your Dog
A few minutes — or even a few steps — are all you need to add joy to your dog’s day.
A few minutes — or even a few steps — are all you need to add joy to your dog’s day.
![A shy looking dog sitting on a couch.]()
Not all fearful dogs have been mistreated.
![Mixed dog laying on the floor int he sun with an unsure look on her face]()
behaviorDecoding Your Dog’s Growls
When your dog growls, they’re expressing their emotions. A study found that you’ll likely be able to understand what they’re feeling.
When your dog growls, they’re expressing their emotions. A study found that you’ll likely be able to understand what they’re feeling.
![Two cats in a living room that appear to be arguing.]()
Between actual cats, people.
![Black dog sitting on tiled floor]()
behaviorWhat’s Better Than a Tail Wag? A Circle Wag
Also called the “propeller wag” or “helicopter tail”, this behavior is a surefire way to tell that a dog is happy.
Also called the “propeller wag” or “helicopter tail”, this behavior is a surefire way to tell that a dog is happy.
![Two brown and white puppies leaning on fence]()
Double the trouble or double the fun?
![Pet parent Victoria Cheng and her partner in a skate park trying to teach their Corgi dog to skateboard with treats]()
They’ll be doing ollies in no time.
![Dog lying on a brick street with a leash]()
behavior | Ask a Trainer“Why Won’t My Dog Walk Outside?”
Dog behaviorist Karen B. London’s 7 tips to help get your parked pet moving.
Dog behaviorist Karen B. London’s 7 tips to help get your parked pet moving.
![Young woman hugging her cat]()
Surprise: It doesn’t always mean they’re happy.
![Greyhound dog biting and pulling his leash held by a woman in a red dress in the grass]()
behaviorHow to Stop Your Dog From Biting the Leash
Most dogs love walking, but some love chaos a little bit more.
Most dogs love walking, but some love chaos a little bit more.
![Two fearful adolescent dogs peeking through a slightly open door]()
behaviorDoes Your Dog Have “Juvenile Onset Shyness?”
Turns out, the teenage years aren’t just tough for humans — they can be rough on dogs, too.
Turns out, the teenage years aren’t just tough for humans — they can be rough on dogs, too.
![Dog gently takes treat from owner's hand]()
And save your skin.
![Big dog sniffs little dog in greeting]()
behaviorHow to Properly Introduce Two Pups
There’s a lot more to it than sniffing each other’s butts.
There’s a lot more to it than sniffing each other’s butts.
![A cat being friendly with a dog outside.]()
No, cats don’t always land on their feet.
![Back view of Saint Bernard puppy tail]()
behaviorIs Your Dog a Lefty or a Righty?
Your dog’s wag and paw preference say a lot about their personality.
Your dog’s wag and paw preference say a lot about their personality.
![Red cat with squinted eyes laying in a basket closeup]()
health6 Behavioral Signs of Pain in Cats
Animal behaviorist Karen B. London breaks down the silent ways your kitty is trying to tell you they’re hurting.
Animal behaviorist Karen B. London breaks down the silent ways your kitty is trying to tell you they’re hurting.
![Dark brown dog sitting on a gray couch in a living room]()
behaviorTurns Out Dogs Can Tell, Er, Smell Time
There’s no time like the present, according to your pet.
There’s no time like the present, according to your pet.
![Cat being happily pet in the sunshine of a window]()
There is a right and wrong way.
![Shy black dog walking with owner at the park.]()
behaviorHow to Help an Anxious Dog Conquer Their Fears
Six animal behaviorists and I share our pro tips for boosting the confidence of a fearful dog.
Six animal behaviorists and I share our pro tips for boosting the confidence of a fearful dog.
![A cat climbing shelves and pawing at a planter.]()
behaviorWhy Cats Like to Hit the High Spots
Animal behaviorist Karen B. London on how to create great escapes for your cat without leaving home.
Animal behaviorist Karen B. London on how to create great escapes for your cat without leaving home.
![Angry pomeranian chihuahua pup on a dark gray background]()
behaviorIs Your Dog Giving You the Stink Eye?
Despite plenty of reasons to get mad, an animal behaviorist says dogs rarely express real anger.
Despite plenty of reasons to get mad, an animal behaviorist says dogs rarely express real anger.
![person playing tug with dog]()
behaviorThe Do’s and Don’ts of Playing with Your Dog
Chase? Wrestle? Tug-o-war? Find out which are fair game.
Chase? Wrestle? Tug-o-war? Find out which are fair game.
![A woman walking with her dog at golden hour.]()
behaviorDaylight Saving Time Confuses Pets, Too
Animal behaviorist Karen London on how springing forward and falling back causes your dog or cat to lose sleep, too.
Animal behaviorist Karen London on how springing forward and falling back causes your dog or cat to lose sleep, too.
![A woman with curly black hair playing with her white labradoodle dog outside]()
behavior7 Games Your Dog Can Learn From
There is more to playing with your dog than just having a good time.
There is more to playing with your dog than just having a good time.
![Dog chewing spiked orange toy at home]()
lifestyle6 Ways to Keep Your Dog Entertained While You’re At Work
Don’t hit pause on your pet’s playtime — these solo activities will help 9-5 fly by for them.
Don’t hit pause on your pet’s playtime — these solo activities will help 9-5 fly by for them.
![Two dogs acting rowdy at the lake while a person tries to calm them down]()
behaviorMy Dog Is Misbehaving. What Should I Do?
Don’t blame the dog — instead, figure out how to help them succeed.
Don’t blame the dog — instead, figure out how to help them succeed.
![Pet parent walking Staffordshire terrier dog on a leash in urban park in the rain]()
Which one is yours?
![Hungary shepherd dog with hair covering its eyes]()
Hint: they can’t see.
![White and brown puppy destroyed a stuffed toy]()
behavior5 Ways to Stop Your Dog From Ripping Up Their Toys
How to teach your dog to enjoy, not destroy, their toys.
How to teach your dog to enjoy, not destroy, their toys.
![Dog in the sand smiling at the camera]()
behaviorWhat Are You Smiling At?
There’s a big difference between a dog smiling and showing their teeth.
There’s a big difference between a dog smiling and showing their teeth.
![Dog on leash barking with hair standing up]()
behavior“Piloerection” Is Not a Dirty Word
Weirdly, this is what it’s called when your dog “raises their hackles.” And here’s why they do it...
Weirdly, this is what it’s called when your dog “raises their hackles.” And here’s why they do it...
![Playful Chihuahua with toy in mouth laying on an orange dog bed]()
behavior | Ask a Trainer“Help! How Do I Get My Dog to Stop Eating Socks”
How to get your pet to stop chewing on inedibles from clothes to couches.
How to get your pet to stop chewing on inedibles from clothes to couches.
![German Shepherd puppy pulling at a branch]()
behaviorSmells Like Teen Spirit
What to expect when your pandemic puppy becomes an unruly adolescent.
What to expect when your pandemic puppy becomes an unruly adolescent.
![Happy pet owners cuddling with their dog]()
(And your own, while you’re at it.)
![Dog looks up at owner on a walk through the city]()
behavior7 Ways to Stop Your Dog from Scavenging on Walks
If your dog tries to scarf down literally everything in sight, you need this advice.
If your dog tries to scarf down literally everything in sight, you need this advice.
![A dog looking up with a cute face]()
5 ways to warm a skittish dog to you.
![Pet parent training large dog in yard]()
behaviorAre Friends and Family Derailing Your Dog’s Training?
What to do when your best-laid training plans are sabotaged.
What to do when your best-laid training plans are sabotaged.
![Puppy hides under the couch in fear]()
behaviorDoes Your Dog Freak Out When Friends Come Over?
Here’s dog behaviorist Karen B. London’s simple trick to making your pet (and your guest) feel at home.
Here’s dog behaviorist Karen B. London’s simple trick to making your pet (and your guest) feel at home.
![Tan Chihuahua dog laying on aqua rug looking down shamefully]()
behavior | Ask a Trainer“Why Is My Adult Dog Peeing in the House?”
How to re-housetrain a dog of any age.
How to re-housetrain a dog of any age.
![Little dog peeps out from sitting woman's legs and looks up at the camera]()
behaviorCan You Socialize an Adult Dog?
With patience and positive reinforcement, you can do a lot to make up for lost time.
With patience and positive reinforcement, you can do a lot to make up for lost time.
![Puppy looks up while sitting next to a puzzle toy with food.]()
Plus 6 stylish slow-feed dog bowls.
![A woman holding a dogs paw and smiling.]()
Go beyond the basics.
![Woman Feeding Her Dog During Dinner]()
behaviorBe My Guest: Training Your Dog in Social Graces
Because nobody wants your pup eating the host’s charcuterie platter.
Because nobody wants your pup eating the host’s charcuterie platter.
![Owner walking two Dalmatians downtown]()
behaviorWho’s Walking Who?
Dog trainer Karen B. London promises you’re not doomed to be pulled down the street forever.
Dog trainer Karen B. London promises you’re not doomed to be pulled down the street forever.
![Black puppy chews on a frozen Kong treat]()
Two words: Endless entertainment.
![Dog laying on the ground guarding toy in mouth]()
behaviorHow to Get Your Dog to Stop Resource Guarding Their Stuff
If your dog growls when you get near their food or toys, read this rn.
If your dog growls when you get near their food or toys, read this rn.
