The type of supplies and tools you use can speak to the type of trainer you aspire to be. As a heads up, all methods and tools work to varying degrees. You may not be able to change that, but you can lead yourself in the direction your dog would be proud of.
With that being said positive is not permissive and we do need elegant ways to set boundaries and train behaviors.
Below are a few of my recommendations to start dog training. If you want the complete list, press I'm In!!
Have you ever been to SeaWorld or seen a video of a dolphin jumping out of and doing flips above the water?
The dolphins typically have been classically conditioned to follow around a target stick, a big white ball attached to a long pole. They may even bring it out in the show to help guide novice dolphins.
Bumble and I were living by the beach, going on runs, and living life to the fullest. Being in a small apartment there was lots of dog training to do, barking when people walked by, being good in his crate while I worked, coming when called, and more.
One day, after training, my roommate and I sat down to have a beer and catch up. As we are talking the building starts to shake, it gets really loud, we stop talking, and wait for the plane to pass over. Our apartment was by the beach but also next to the airport and about every 10 minutes another plane would come in to land.
We had been living there for a few months at this point and would just pretend we didn't care and practiced stoic patience, but I would not say we enjoyed when the planes flew over. So I suggested we counter condition ourselves. You want to do what with us? My roommate looked at me weirdly.
Look, right now the pattern is hear the airplane, get frustrated but be stoic, which doesn't feel good.
Let's change that to hear the airplane, cheers and take a drink of beer, which may be fun, but we need to test it. And so we did, it turned out to be a fun game, and even to this day if I am drinking and hear an airplane pass by, I'll lift up my glass.
Most dog training is creating a conditioned response to something new that means nothing to your dog, or sometimes counter conditioning an emotional response. Meaning if a particular thing scares, excites, or frustrates your dog, you can counter condition your dog to love, ignore, or get excited instead. Fireworks on 4th of July are a great time to practice this idea, each time a firework explodes, go over go over to a treat jar, say search, and toss your pup a treat.
If you understand that the brain is consistently creating meaning and associations, then you will know 1 of only 2 principles that you can use to train your dog to be your dream dog!
I mostly train new puppy owners because they are motivated and want to put in the time. But I believe that at any age, any breed, and any animal can learn with positive reinforcement and a basic understanding of animal psychology.
I learn from Susan Garrett and focus on
3 pillars in the 4 week program.
1) Coming When Called
2) Crate And Place
3) Walking On Leash
Through regular training sessions, you not only improve your dog's physical health and well-being but also provide them with valuable mental stimulation. By being focused in your training, your dog develops sensory awareness and self-control, which is essential when dealing with distractions. This creates a stronger bond between you and your dog, leading to a healthier and thoughtful dog.
By investing in your dog's training, you are not only improving their obedience, but also their thoughtfulness. Training requires effort and repetition, but the payoff is worth it as your dog becomes a trusted companion who knows and follows the rules. By creating a shared connection with clear boundaries, you and your dog will have a stronger bond and a more reliable partnership. So step up towards a better relationship with your furry friend.
With training, you and your dog can build a stronger bond through improved communication. By better understanding each other, you can creatively and persuasively communicate your expectations, leading to a more reliable and confident pup. Through joyful repetitions and clear results, your dog can become more focused and attentive, ultimately deepening your connection and understanding.
After helping hundreds of dog owners with new puppies I have learned that puppies are energetic, curious, mischievous and the breed doesn't matter! Australian shepherds, basset hounds, German shepherds, dachshunds, Pomeranians, And it got me thinking.
A master checklist including what I would do in the first 30 days with a puppy would be very helpful.