There are many different approaches to dog training, some more effective than others. Because the ‘right and wrong way’ can be debated and discussed for long periods of time without a definitive conclusion, we offer you our beliefs and approach to teaching your dog to be the best dog he can be.
We believe that the best results in obedience training start with having a basic trust relationship with the dog. We prefer to spend some time with the dog before any work is expected of him. By doing this we create a cohesive bond of trust. We do realize that this ‘bonding time’ is not always possible, and we realize that not all dogs will bond to us in the same way. However, we do still hold this as a truth of effective obedience training.
We believe in DISCIPLINE AND CORRECTION. Not all trainers are advocates of ‘correcting’ behavior (using chain collars, shock collars, etc.) Many will bank on ‘bribing’ with treats to create the needed responses. We have deemed this method to be ineffective when it counts most, and creates an attitude of ‘performance for reward’ in your dog. So we ask you this…. If your dog is running toward a busy street, chasing a cat or dog, will he come to you if all you offer is a treat?...Probably not. Our methods are based in RELATIONSHIP and DISCIPLINE. WE DO NOT BELIEVE IN BEATING, HITTING, OR OTHERWISE ABUSING ANIMALS. WE WILL NOT TOLERATE IT AND NEITHER SHOULD YOU.
Our goal is to create a situation that resembles a naturally occurring, pack oriented environment, and then to use corrections that most resemble those that an alpha dog would use to discipline his pack. We must speak to them in their own language. Dogs do not speak English, and they do not understand our emotional reasons for doing what we do. We must communicate with them in ways they understand. Some correction tools are very useful for this goal, and we use them at our professional discretion.
We also believe in POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT. We want them to know when they do something right. And we want them to be encouraged to continue to do things right. Yes, we discipline when needed and yes, we praise when appropriate.
We believe in ALL-AROUND WELLNES FOR DOGS. This means proper exercise, mental challenge, proper diet, discipline, and when appropriate, sappy displays of love and affection. You love your dog and want the best for him. We love them too and we can help them to be their best.
We believe in EXCELLENCE. We believe that we should be the best we can be at whatever we put our hands to. For this reason, we are continually exploring other methods, ideas, and philosophies in an effort to be the best trainers, care-takers, and well rounded people available to you and your pet.