How We Train

As a trainer, it's my job to find a way to help a dog learn. I enjoy problem solving and have worked with all ages, gun shy, run-off dogs and even bird shy dogs. Of course, the easy natural dogs are fantastic to work with also, and every dog no matter their skill level, has many lessons to teach me as well. I use no set technique; I learn as many techniques and styles as possible to create a mental "library" of techniques. Then the owner and I choose the gentlest most effective method possible for each dog. I use clicker training in young dogs and to help teach concepts quickly, but also use an e-collar later to reinforce, unless the owner prefers to train without. There is no age too old or too young to learn, but the methods we use will vary.
Check out a few video clips below, to see some of our training techniques for all ages.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Gretchen

Trained with e-collar and flat buckle collar with lead on Gretchen today. I am working towards making it fun and improving her attitude. As we started she was eager until I gave the command, then here is what she looked like, though she stopped on a dime.






Her head is low and she looks nervous. SO, after I released her I gave her lots of praise.





And then another try, but unfortunately no photo, with quiet "good dog" praise while she is on the "whoa" command. Sometimes I keep my mouth shut, but it is also good for dogs to learn that just because you are talking, does not mean they have been released. Gretchen already knows this and so it not a new thing for her. Her release command is "okay" and I have always told myself my next dog will have a different release, but I alwasy default to this one anyway.
:( The trainer needs training...
This happy talk helps her alot and she is more relaxed and wagging her tail on the next "whoa."

Progress, but we will just keep on with the confidence until she likes the game alot. Then I'll try to extend the time and step away.
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