TRAINING

For a typical Basic Training session, we cover the following:

• Leash Walking
• Sit
• Down
• Come
• Look/Watch
• Leave It
• Stay

If your dog knows some (or all) of the basics, and you would prefer to dedicate the time to a subset of these commands, or alternative commands such as Heel or Stand, we can modify the curriculum so it meets the needs of you and your dog.

BEHAVIORAL CONSULTATION

If there are specific behaviors you have encountered (chewing, nipping, barking), we can help you manage these behaviors. 

It's important to realize that these are not "bad" behaviors, but common behavior for dogs that may be occurring excessively or may be exhibited inappropriately.

If more severe behaviors are the problem, such as aggression or separation anxiety, we can also assist. These may be more complex, and may require additional time or other training resources to help resolve.

HOW WE TRAIN - BALANCED TECHNIQUES

There are a variety of dog training methods that can be used. Positive Reinforcement methods will use food (or another motivator) and encourage and reinforce your dogs behavior by rewarding him/her.  Old school methods use force and physical corrections to teach your dog proposer behavior.  Both methods are valid, in that a dog can be successfully trained through either approach. 

I find it's helpful to learn and understand both methods.  The middle ground between the two styles offers you methods you can use when you have the luxury of time to train your dog, or methods you can employ if you need to take more immediate corrective action.  For instance, if your dog has a tendency to run into traffic, you may not want to take a long-term "motivational" approach to change that behavior.