Training Philosophy
We utilize both classical and operant conditioning; taking a holistic approach when working with every dog. With extensive experience studying and working hands-on with hundreds of dogs, we understand that no two dogs are the same and therefore each training program is designed specifically around each individual dog.
We maximize positive reinforcement to teach new behaviors and increase desired behaviors. Through the use of food reward, toy/play motivation and praise, we bring out the best in each dog’s behavior by increasing their desire to learn.
We also have the ability to stop dangerous or unwanted behaviors in dogs. We believe it’s important to make sure dogs understand both a positive marker (“Yes”) for good behavior, and a correction marker (“No”) to interrupt unwanted behavior.
One of the most important aspects of being a successful dog trainer is having the ability to instruct, educate, and support dog owners. We have a teaching style that is client-focused, helping dog owners feel confident in providing leadership and guidance in their dog’s life. Through effective, consistent communication, our clients feel calm and in control when working with their dog.
Remote / E-Collar Training
One of our specialties is providing off-leash obedience training and developing a dog’s focus and obedience around high levels of distraction. In order to create safe, reliable off-leash obedience responses, we need a training tool that allows for us to communicate with our dogs when they are off-leash.
Why off-leash training?
There are many reasons to off-leash train your dog, safety being the most important! When our dogs are off-leash trained we are able to better communicate with them in our home, backyard, while on a walk, hiking, or during any other outdoor activity.
When your dog is off-leash trained they can be given more freedom to enjoy “being a dog”. They can run around, smell, explore, and enjoy other activities that wouldn’t be possible if they were always on-leash.
What brand we use:
We use collars from E-Collar Technologies, which make one of the highest quality remote collars on the market. The stimulation is the same as a TENS Unit which is used in humans for muscle stimulation (doctors and physical therapists use them quite often).
Why use a remote/e-collar?
Is it electric, is it a shock collar?
No. We do not use traditional shock collars. Shock collars tend to have electric/static shock, have very few levels of control, and are typically used for punishment or corrections only.
We exclusively use collars from E-Collar Technologies, which make one of the highest quality remote collars on the market. The stimulation is the same as a TENS Unit which is used in humans for muscle stimulation (doctors and physical therapists use them quite often). The collars are not electric and the dogs can safely wear them underwater.
How we use the e-collar:
We train dogs on very low-levels, levels that most humans are unable to feel. Most dogs learn on single digit levels, most under a level 5 out of 100. We teach dogs the language of the e-collar through a series of exercises and through the use of obedience commands which they have already learned through positive reinforcement training.
Although most of the time we are using low to moderate levels to get a dog’s attention, once a dog is educated on the collar, we can use it at a slightly higher level to apply appropriate corrections for dangerous or unwanted behaviors (i.e. counter-surfing, jumping, obsessive barking, digging, etc). We discuss this process in depth with all of our clients to be sure they know how to properly use the tool and how to find what levels are best for their dog.
