Jean Donaldson and the second edition of her book Mine! at Bark! Fest

A pivotal event for dog guardians and training professionals is set to unfold on Monday, September 21, as Jean Donaldson, an internationally recognized authority in canine behavior and training, will host a live discussion centered on the newly released second edition of her seminal work, Mine! A Practical Guide to Resource Guarding in Dogs. This virtual gathering, part of the esteemed Bark! Fest series, offers a unique opportunity to delve into the complexities of resource guarding—a behavior that presents significant challenges for countless dog owners—and to explore the updated, science-backed strategies presented in her refreshed classic. The webinar, scheduled for 11:00 AM Pacific Time (2:00 PM Eastern / 7:00 PM UK time), promises to be an enlightening session, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the motivations behind resource guarding, effective intervention techniques, and the broader implications of positive reinforcement in canine welfare.

The Enduring Challenge of Resource Guarding in Dogs

Resource guarding, defined as a dog’s act of displaying behaviors (such as growling, snapping, or biting) to retain possession of an item or location in the presence of others, is a pervasive behavioral issue in the canine world. It can manifest around various resources, including food bowls, toys, beds, favored resting spots, or even human companions. Research and veterinary behavioral statistics consistently indicate that resource guarding is a common concern, affecting an estimated 20-30% of the dog population to varying degrees. For many dog owners, encountering this behavior can be deeply distressing, leading to feelings of frustration, fear, and confusion. It often strains the human-animal bond, limits household interactions, and, in severe cases, can pose safety risks, particularly in homes with children or multiple pets. Tragically, resource guarding is frequently cited as a contributing factor in owner surrenders to shelters, underscoring the critical need for effective and humane management strategies.

Historically, approaches to resource guarding were often rooted in outdated dominance theories, advocating for confrontational methods that could escalate aggression and erode trust between dog and owner. However, advancements in ethology, cognitive science, and applied behavior analysis have unequivocally demonstrated the efficacy and ethical superiority of positive reinforcement techniques. These modern methods focus on teaching dogs alternative behaviors, building confidence, and creating an environment where they feel secure and do not perceive a need to guard.

Jean Donaldson: A Pioneer in Modern Dog Training

Jean Donaldson stands as a towering figure in the realm of modern dog training and behavior. Her influence stems not only from her extensive practical experience but also from her unwavering commitment to science-based, humane methodologies. As the founder and director of the Academy for Dog Trainers, often referred to as "the Harvard of dog training," Donaldson has shaped generations of professional dog trainers worldwide, instilling in them a deep understanding of learning theory and ethical practice. Her philosophy champions positive reinforcement, emphasizing the importance of understanding canine communication and motivations rather than resorting to punitive measures.

Donaldson’s literary contributions have profoundly impacted the field. Her seminal work, The Culture Clash: A Revolutionary New Way to Understand the Relationship Between Humans and Domestic Dogs, published in 1996, remains a cornerstone of dog training literature. Culture Clash revolutionized how many people viewed their dogs, dispelling myths about dominance and pack theory and instead advocating for a perspective rooted in mutual understanding and positive communication. It was named the number one training and behavior book by The Association of Pet Dog Trainers, cementing its status as an indispensable guide for anyone seeking to build a stronger, more harmonious relationship with their canine companion. In 2017, she further broadened her reach by authoring and instructing "Dog Training 101" for The Great Courses, making her expert insights accessible to an even wider audience.

Mine! The First Edition: A Classic is Born

The original edition of Mine! A Practical Guide to Resource Guarding in Dogs rapidly achieved classic status within the dog training community upon its initial release. At a time when comprehensive, accessible guides on resource guarding were scarce, Donaldson’s book filled a critical void. It provided a clear, compassionate, and practical framework for understanding and addressing this challenging behavior. Unlike many existing resources that offered vague advice or advocated for potentially harmful methods, Mine! offered step-by-step protocols grounded in positive reinforcement, empowering dog owners and trainers with actionable strategies. Its initial success lay in its ability to demystify resource guarding, explaining the underlying canine psychology in an understandable manner and offering humane solutions that prioritized the dog’s well-being and the owner’s safety. The book quickly became a recommended text for professional trainers and a trusted resource for dedicated dog guardians grappling with this complex issue.

The Evolution of Expertise: Mine! Second Edition

Now, over two decades since its initial publication, Jean Donaldson has revisited and significantly refined her groundbreaking work, presenting the second edition of Mine! A Practical Guide to Resource Guarding in Dogs. This updated volume is not merely a reprint but a comprehensive overhaul, reflecting the significant advancements in canine behavioral science and training methodologies that have emerged since the first edition. The landscape of dog behavior understanding has evolved, with new research shedding light on canine cognition, emotions, and the nuances of their interactions with humans. The second edition meticulously integrates these contemporary insights, offering readers a deeper, more nuanced understanding of why dogs guard resources.

Key enhancements in this new edition include:

• Deeper Insight: Expanded theoretical frameworks delve further into the evolutionary and environmental factors contributing to resource guarding, offering a more holistic view of the behavior.
• Expanded Case Examples: Numerous new real-world scenarios and detailed case studies provide practical illustrations of how resource guarding manifests and how the recommended strategies can be applied effectively.
• Practical, Step-by-Step Guidance: Protocols have been refined and updated to be even more user-friendly, translating complex behavioral science into clear, actionable steps for owners and trainers.
• Modern, Relationship-Centered Training: The new edition places a greater emphasis on fostering trust and strengthening the human-animal bond, moving beyond mere behavior modification to promote a more harmonious relationship.
• Updated Protocols and Troubleshooting Tips: Reflecting the latest scientific understanding, intervention strategies have been updated, and a dedicated section on troubleshooting common challenges ensures readers can adapt techniques to specific situations.
• Guidance for Prevention: A significant addition is the focus on proactive measures and prevention strategies, particularly valuable for puppy owners or those introducing new dogs into a household, aiming to mitigate the development of guarding behaviors.

The necessity for a second edition arose from the continuous evolution of canine behavioral science. What was cutting-edge knowledge decades ago has been further refined and expanded. Donaldson’s commitment to staying at the forefront of her field ensures that Mine! remains the most relevant and effective guide available. This updated version ensures that more dog guardians and trainers are equipped with the most current, humane, and effective tools to manage and prevent resource guarding, ultimately leading to safer homes and happier dogs. It offers not just solutions but a philosophy that prioritizes safety, trust, and long-term success, helping families restore harmony at home.

Bark! Fest: A Platform for Canine Enlightenment

Jean Donaldson’s appearance is a highlight of Bark! Fest, an acclaimed online book festival dedicated to animal lovers. Bark! Fest serves as a crucial platform for connecting readers with leading authors, researchers, and experts in animal behavior, welfare, and training. Its mission is to disseminate accurate, science-backed information and promote humane practices through engaging discussions about significant literary works. The festival, known for its curated selection of speakers and thought-provoking content, provides an accessible forum for continuous learning and community building within the animal advocacy and pet ownership spheres. Donaldson’s participation underscores the festival’s commitment to featuring voices that have profoundly shaped and advanced the understanding of animal behavior. Her discussion is anticipated to attract a large international audience, eager to gain direct insights from one of the most respected figures in dog training.

The Role of the Hosts: Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson

The event will be expertly hosted by two prominent figures in the animal behavior community: Zazie Todd, PhD, and Kristi Benson. Dr. Todd is a highly respected animal behavior expert, author, and founder of the popular Companion Animal Psychology blog. Her work focuses on translating scientific research into practical, accessible advice for pet owners, emphasizing positive reinforcement and animal welfare. Her book, Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy, has been widely praised for its evidence-based approach to enhancing canine well-being.

Kristi Benson, a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and associate trainer at the Academy for Dog Trainers, brings extensive practical experience and a deep understanding of humane training methodologies. Her expertise in working with complex canine behaviors, combined with her dedication to positive reinforcement, makes her an ideal co-host for a discussion on resource guarding. Both Dr. Todd and Benson are known for their ability to facilitate engaging and informative discussions, ensuring that attendees receive maximum value from Donaldson’s presentation. Their involvement adds another layer of credibility and expertise to an already highly anticipated event.

Impact and Broader Implications for Dog Welfare

The release of Mine! Second Edition and its discussion at Bark! Fest carry significant implications for the broader landscape of dog welfare and human-animal relationships. By providing updated, accessible, and scientifically sound guidance on resource guarding, Donaldson’s work contributes to several critical areas:

• Enhanced Dog Welfare: Effective management of resource guarding reduces stress and anxiety for dogs, fostering a sense of security and improving their overall quality of life. It helps prevent behaviors that could lead to injury or abandonment.
• Empowerment of Dog Owners: Equipping owners with practical, humane tools empowers them to address challenging behaviors confidently and effectively, reducing frustration and strengthening the bond with their pets.
• Advancement of the Dog Training Industry: The updated edition sets a new standard for best practices in addressing resource guarding, encouraging trainers to adopt and refine their methods based on the latest scientific understanding. It reinforces the shift away from punitive, confrontational training techniques.
• Public Education: Events like Bark! Fest, featuring esteemed experts like Jean Donaldson, play a crucial role in public education, raising awareness about important behavioral issues and promoting responsible pet ownership.
• Safety in Communities: By helping owners manage potentially aggressive behaviors, the book and its associated discussions contribute to safer communities for both humans and animals.

The enduring relevance of Mine! underscores the persistent need for clear, compassionate, and effective solutions to common canine behavioral challenges. Donaldson’s continued dedication to refining her work ensures that dog guardians and professionals alike have access to the highest standard of guidance.

Event Details and How to Participate

The virtual event with Jean Donaldson is scheduled for Monday, September 21, at 11:00 AM Pacific Time. This translates to 2:00 PM Eastern Time in the United States and 7:00 PM in the UK, making it accessible to a wide international audience. Interested participants are strongly encouraged to register in advance to secure their spot. The event will be conducted via Zoom, and a recording will be made available to all registered attendees, allowing those unable to attend live to benefit from Donaldson’s insights at their convenience.

To register and save your spot for this essential discussion, visit the official registration link provided: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/5517855351690/WN_vk6fpD97RmO5BdDZj-tJ1g.

Supporting Authors and Accessing Resources

Attendees and interested readers are encouraged to support Jean Donaldson and other authors by purchasing their books. Mine! A Practical Guide to Resource Guarding in Dogs, Second Edition is available wherever books are sold. For convenient access, copies can be found via Dr. Zazie Todd’s Amazon store (https://www.amazon.com/shop/animalbookclub/list/1AOFRUDRWF9B7?ref_=aipsflist) and Bookshop (https://bookshop.org/lists/bark-fest-2026). These platforms also support independent bookstores, aligning with the spirit of literary community. As a disclosure, the provided links are affiliate links, meaning commissions may be earned on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to the buyer. This mechanism helps support the work of creators like Dr. Todd and the broader animal welfare community.

The release of the second edition of Mine! and Jean Donaldson’s accompanying discussion at Bark! Fest represent a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to promote humane, effective, and science-backed dog training. This event promises to be an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand, prevent, and humanely address resource guarding, ultimately fostering stronger, safer, and more joyful relationships between dogs and their human companions.