FAQs

It depends! In our training practice, we deeply appreciate the strengths of positive reinforcement and employ it extensively. Indeed, depending on the specific dog and circumstances, positive reinforcement can account for 50-100% of our obedience and behavior-shaping strategies. Our philosophy recognizes that every dog is an individual, influenced by a host of factors including how they were nurtured, breed-specific traits, unique personality, temperament, and the environment they live in. These aspects profoundly shape how a dog perceives and interacts with the world. As professional dog trainers, we see it as our responsibility to acknowledge these individual differences by adapting our training approach for each unique dog, shaping and molding our techniques to suit their specific needs and circumstances.

However, our experience and professional understanding have taught us that an approach combining different methodologies often achieves balanced, resilient, and long-lasting results more effectively. While positive reinforcement is powerful and forms the backbone of our training, we recognize that real-life scenarios, especially in busy working family environments, require adaptable solutions. This recognition is where gentle corrections—verbal, visual, or physical (such as leash pressure)—can come into play, contributing approximately 10% to our approach. These mild interventions help guide dogs away from undesirable behaviors and foster a well-rounded, disciplined companion.

We hold a firm belief that continuously "throwing treats" to shape behavior can potentially lead to dependency, bribing and imbalance, not just in the dog's behavior but also in the owner's ability to maintain consistent training cues. It requires impeccable timing and consistency from the owner, which can be quite challenging.

Nonetheless, we acknowledge that there are situations where positive reinforcement exclusively is not just necessary but the most compassionate approach. Specifically, in cases with traumatized or extremely fearful dogs, we shift our strategy. For these sensitive animals, we prioritize building trust and confidence, often employing a 100% positive reinforcement method tailored to their pace.

Our commitment is always to the well-being and balanced development of your dog, ensuring they are learning in a manner that respects their individual needs and psychological state.

I use

Positive Reinforcement

Negative Reinforcement

Positive Punishment

Negative Punishment

Free Shaping

Desensitization

Counter Conditioning

Classical Conditioning

Every dog responds differently to each method and during obedience training every method is always paired with another. The one method that dominates all the others for frequency of use is easily positve reinforcement.

In our training practice, we select from a range of tools to aid in the communication process between you and your beloved pet. These tools serve as an extension of our training techniques, each chosen based on the individual dog's temperament, behavior, breed, and specific needs. Here is a list of tools we might use:

• Martingale collars

• Slip leashes

• Prong collars

• E-Collars

• Long lines

• Retractable leashes

Our approach is never one-size-fits-all, and as such, there isn't a single tool we reach for every time. The frequency with which we use these tools varies significantly; some are rare choices, called upon only when particularly suited to a dog's training requirements, while others are integral to our daily practices.

It's important to emphasize that the purpose of these tools is to enhance the clarity of communication with your dog. They are used as reinforcers, facilitating clearer guidance and understanding, not as punishments. Each tool, when used correctly and responsibly, helps in conveying commands and feedback in a way that supports the dog's learning process, contributing positively to the development of behaviors that are beneficial for both the pet and owner.

In every situation, our primary aim is to ensure that the tools are used in alignment with humane, respectful training practices, focusing on building a relationship based on trust and positive reinforcement. We are always open to discussing why a particular tool is recommended and how it functions as part of your dog's individualized training program.

Embarking on off-leash training is a significant step and a liberating experience for both dogs and their owners. Our unique program is designed to create a reliable communication line between you and your dog, even in environments where your dog is not physically tethered. One of the central tools we utilize for this level of training is the remote collar, a device known for its effectiveness in gaining a dog's attention even from afar.

However, it's important to clarify that our use of the remote collar differs significantly from common misconceptions. We use it as a means of positive or negative reinforcement rather than correction (positive punishment). The sensation provided by the collar is akin to a tap on the shoulder, a gentle and non-intrusive reminder that helps the dog understand and respond to commands, reinforcing communication without inducing stress or fear.

For the off-leash program, we recommend that dogs are at least 6 months old. This minimum age ensures they are developmentally ready to comprehend and respond to the cues given via the remote collar, ensuring that the training is both effective and affirming. It sets the stage for your dog to explore the world more freely and confidently while maintaining the discipline to follow your guidance for their safety and well-being.

This training phase is a journey, and we're committed to guiding you and your dog through it. We believe in the power of positive reinforcement and the profound bond it helps foster between you and your pet, making the adventures you undertake together more enjoyable and secure.