As a trainer, who has worked with people and their pets for the better part of my life, I realized early on that people really aren’t looking for an obedience champion.
They just want one that behaves, listens, and is easy to live with.
I’m a behavior nerd, and for me, teaching a dog how to do a “tuck sit” is a lot of fun, but at the end of the day, I’m the same. I want a dog that is easy to live with.
Just like you do.
But it shouldn’t feel like you have a second job, either.
Training is 10% formal practice and 90% how you interact with your dog during the day.
Dogs progress really quickly when you integrate their new skills into your daily routine.
There Are Two Ends to the Leash
There are two ends to the leash, and some of the most important lessons I teach aren’t for the dogs at all. They’re for the people who love them.
Dogs are learning from us all day long, whether we’re deliberately training them or not. And sometimes, without realizing it, we’re teaching them the very behaviors that drive us crazy.
Part of my job is to help owners recognize what they’re teaching, understand why their dog behaves the way he does, and how to get the behavior they actually want.
Training That Works for You and Your Dog
There is no single “right way” or “wrong way” to train your dog. Only what works for him and you.
If your dog sleeps on the bed, sits on the couch, or walks out the door ahead you, I am not going to criticize. Your house, your rules. Nor does scolding make you a bad person.
As a balanced trainer, my “toolbox” of techniques is pretty big. I’ve seen or tried just about every technique out there, and I know what works and what doesn’t. My methods are rewards based and humane.
It Helps If We Are All On The Same Page.
For instance, I think crates are wonderful tools when used appropriately. But if you just hate the idea of using one, then that is not going to work for you. Just be blunt and tell me, and we’ll find another way.
Training should make life better, not more stressful.