Dog Training = Freedom
How does training your dog equal freedom? Once your dog knows what you expect from them, and can behave in a socially correct manner, you will have more freedom to take your dog places, and your dog will also be given more freedom.
Offering one-on-one positive-reinforcement based training sessions, which can include loose-leash training, polite-puppy and recall reinforcement session, which in return will allow for a closer bond and a happier family life.
Laying the foundation and working closely with families who have the desire to continue the training. Consistency is key.
Pricing varies depending on your pet's needs and your location, starting at $70/hr
My view point on "positive-reinforcement" training:
Of course pets should be worked with in a fun way that promotes joy for the animal whenever possible. Using praise, playfulness, handing out treats, and loving on the dog when they are "being good" reinforces this positive behavior and is the best way to show them what you want from them. But what about when they do something you don't want them to do? Like a puppy using those razor sharp teeth to gnaw on your hand, or jumping up on someone can rip clothing or cause injury. What then? How do we train that with positivity? Not all training will fall under the "positive" umbrella. For instance, teaching a puppy not to bite requires consistantly pulling away every time their teeth touches your skin, whether it hurts or not, and to make a sound like it hurts. To teach them that their teeth should never touch human skin, pull your hand away and tell them ouch! or no! every single time. It is not exactly positive training, however it's effective, they will learn. To teach your dog not to jump up on people also requires consistantly correcting this negative behavior, which can include turning your back and ignoring the puppy for a few seconds before trying to interact again. It's important to be kind and show lots of patience and love when training dogs, even when positive training can't be implemented 100% of the time, they should leave the session secure knowing that you love them and are not mad at them. Any progress and effort, no matter how small, should be praised. All the hype regarding positive training is wonderful and has brought attention to aversive-based training, and how it's not as effective as positive-based training. Training with pain is not the answer and scientific research shows that it only makes behavioral issues worse.
My thought on traditional "board and train" facilities:
During these types of training programs it's common to lock dogs in kennels between training sessions, resulting in anxiety with feelings of abandonment for your puppy, and this often exacerbates any behavioral issues or leaves your puppy feeling depleted, and higher anxiety even much later after the board-train is complete. Not only this, but they will likely implement aversive training methods such as choke, pinch and/or shock collars, and science shows this is not nearly as effective and even causes mental instability. It is best to train your new puppy in the comfort of their home and neighborhood and have the trainer come to you. However, I do accept board-train clients occasionally when it's essential for their situation and if the puppy is a good fit for our family. When we board puppies for the purpose of training, we treat them like family.
If you are interested in booking a free phone consultation to find out how I can help, please send an email or text and let me know about your puppy or dog, and what they need to work on in the order of importance for you and your family.
