Though we utilize the approach of positive reinforcement and luring for our initial training, we often times run into dogs we will not willingly settle into the down position, even with food motivation. Since we are not married to one single method (because we believe that all dogs are different and no two learn and retain information exactly the same) we are able to offer different options for our clients who run into walls in their training. One of these methods is placing a dog into position. It's actually a very beneficial method to use as it allows you to socialize your dog to touch and physical manipulation.
This is for those who have or are running into a road block in teaching their dogs the down. A fellow trainer has allowed me to post his video to give you a better understanding of how this particular method works for the down. If done correctly and consistently, you will garner the same results as if you taught with a treat.
Dog training in Milton Ontario, dog training in Milton, dog trainer in Milton Ontario, dog trainer in Milton, puppy training in Milton, puppy class in Milton, Milton Ontario dog training, dog training articles, dog training tips and dog training techniques, common sense dog training, dog training for the average dog owner,
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Natural Aversives - Dog training in Milton Ontario
There is no need for owners to beat themselves up over the fact that
their dogs survive aversives on a daily basis, both accidental and
intentional. Both dogs and humans learn from aversives - touch a hot
stove, get burned, you're less likely to touch it next time. Dog gets
under foot, dog get's stepped on, dog is less likely to get into the
same area next time.
Aversives are often used in training in the form of corrections to decrease the likelyhood of a behaviour. The opposite is true of rewards - they are used to increase the likelyhood of a behaviour.
A good read if you're up for the challenge. Check out Terrierman's intro then follow the link he provides to a great, in-depth article on aversives in dog training and dog's lives in general.
http://terriermandotcom.blogspot.com/2012/01/lessons-on-mountains-muzzle.html
Aversives are often used in training in the form of corrections to decrease the likelyhood of a behaviour. The opposite is true of rewards - they are used to increase the likelyhood of a behaviour.
A good read if you're up for the challenge. Check out Terrierman's intro then follow the link he provides to a great, in-depth article on aversives in dog training and dog's lives in general.
http://terriermandotcom.blogspot.com/2012/01/lessons-on-mountains-muzzle.html
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Chloe & Henri Have Some Fun - Puppy Training in Milton
One of our students having a great time in the park with his best buddy!
Thanks for sharing in your fun Henry!!!
Thanks for sharing in your fun Henry!!!
Monday, January 16, 2012
Retractable Leashes - Warning - Dog Training in Milton
Even though this is from 2009, please read the article if you use a retractable leash. This is still applicable today. As a trainer, I never recommend using these leashes for owners safety, dogs safety and others safety.
http://news.consumerreports.org/safety/2009/03/retractable-leashes-pose-problems-for-people-and-their-pets.html#.ToxJDD6rjoF.facebook
http://news.consumerreports.org/safety/2009/03/retractable-leashes-pose-problems-for-people-and-their-pets.html#.ToxJDD6rjoF.facebook
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Dogs Don't Have to Like Everyone They Meet - Dog Training in Milton
Dogs are very similar to us in many ways, more similar than most think (and that scares some people).
Dogs, like us, have likes, and dislikes, preferences, favorite activities, favorite foods and so on.
Dogs also don't like every dog that they meet, and nor should they be expected to, just as we aren't fans of every person that we meet. Certain personalities just don't jive.
People have a tendency to think that dogs should like each other all the time, in every situation, I mean their dogs right, they're suppose to be friendly? Wrong. Some dogs dislike the company of others, and should never be forced into a situation where they are bombarded by those of the same species. Some tolerate housemates, but are not interested in meeting new friends. Some dogs are biddable enough, but hate rude gestures and greetings. Yet, owners continue to push their dogs upon other dogs, insisting that they need friends.
Yes, with training, dogs should be able to maintain composure in any situation, however, when another dog insists upon a rude greeting (for example charging up face to face, standing very erect, staring etc.) and you can not control the situation due to the other being off leash, you can't expect that every dog will turn a blind eye. The rude greeter, according to your dog, needs to be told he's being rude, and the only way dogs now how is with sound (growing) and action (a retaliation) *This is completely different from leash aggression and should not be treated as such.
Personal space is very important to dogs, just as it is to us. No one likes it when they're in a line up, and the guy behind decides to stand right on your heels, breathing down your neck. It's rude, invading personal space, and you feel like retaliating (I know I do). The same goes for your dog and the rude greeter. Their space is invaded and they become very uncomfortable.
It is not necessary for your dog to love and socialize with other dogs, unless they desire it. It does not take away from their quality of life if they don't have or desire other doggy friends. As long as they are getting the exercise, training and attention from their owners, there is no need.
Even if your dog is not a fan of other dogs, he or she should still be able to maintain composure while on a walk and in public, and that can be achieved with proper training. But please keep in mind, that if your dog doesn't seem to want friends, don't force it on them.
Dogs, like us, have likes, and dislikes, preferences, favorite activities, favorite foods and so on.
Dogs also don't like every dog that they meet, and nor should they be expected to, just as we aren't fans of every person that we meet. Certain personalities just don't jive.People have a tendency to think that dogs should like each other all the time, in every situation, I mean their dogs right, they're suppose to be friendly? Wrong. Some dogs dislike the company of others, and should never be forced into a situation where they are bombarded by those of the same species. Some tolerate housemates, but are not interested in meeting new friends. Some dogs are biddable enough, but hate rude gestures and greetings. Yet, owners continue to push their dogs upon other dogs, insisting that they need friends.
Yes, with training, dogs should be able to maintain composure in any situation, however, when another dog insists upon a rude greeting (for example charging up face to face, standing very erect, staring etc.) and you can not control the situation due to the other being off leash, you can't expect that every dog will turn a blind eye. The rude greeter, according to your dog, needs to be told he's being rude, and the only way dogs now how is with sound (growing) and action (a retaliation) *This is completely different from leash aggression and should not be treated as such.
Personal space is very important to dogs, just as it is to us. No one likes it when they're in a line up, and the guy behind decides to stand right on your heels, breathing down your neck. It's rude, invading personal space, and you feel like retaliating (I know I do). The same goes for your dog and the rude greeter. Their space is invaded and they become very uncomfortable.
It is not necessary for your dog to love and socialize with other dogs, unless they desire it. It does not take away from their quality of life if they don't have or desire other doggy friends. As long as they are getting the exercise, training and attention from their owners, there is no need.
Even if your dog is not a fan of other dogs, he or she should still be able to maintain composure while on a walk and in public, and that can be achieved with proper training. But please keep in mind, that if your dog doesn't seem to want friends, don't force it on them.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
New Year's Classes! Dog Training in Milton Ontario
Well, the New Year has arrived, and what better resolution than to get your dog trained!
We are offering an array of courses starting this month from basic obedience to into agility.
Our Smart Dogs Basic Group Class will begin at the end of January and run for 7 weeks every Sunday at 10:00am-11:00am.
Our Smart Dogs Fun Agility will begin at the end of January as well, and run for 6 weeks every Sunday from 11:30am-12:30pm.
The above two classes will be taking place at the Madjam Fitness Studio on Bronte Street. Classes are kept small for optimum training and results. Contact us today if you are interested in signing up. Only 2 spaces left in the agility class, and 3 in the basic class.
Our Doggy-Style Fitness Class begins in February - but sorry, this session is full! If you are interested in signing up for our next session, please contact us dogtraining101@hotmail.com. Class runs 8 weeks every Saturday morning at Madjam Fitness Studio on Bronte Street.
We will also be starting our Smart Dogs Bootcamp. This class will run continuously throughout the year, outdoors, rain or shine. It is for all skill levels, and is excellent for both beginners and vetrans. This class will get your dog in shape both mentally and physically, and you'll move a little too. This class will get results and will go over all the basics, in all conditions under all distractions. If you want a well behaved, reliable dog in all environments, this class is for you!! Starting in March 2012.
To sign up for any of our classes please contact dogtraining101@hotmail.com or visit the official website www.smartdogsk9.com for more details. And don't forget to like us on facebook www.facebook.com/smartdogsk9.
We are offering an array of courses starting this month from basic obedience to into agility.
Our Smart Dogs Basic Group Class will begin at the end of January and run for 7 weeks every Sunday at 10:00am-11:00am.
Our Smart Dogs Fun Agility will begin at the end of January as well, and run for 6 weeks every Sunday from 11:30am-12:30pm.
The above two classes will be taking place at the Madjam Fitness Studio on Bronte Street. Classes are kept small for optimum training and results. Contact us today if you are interested in signing up. Only 2 spaces left in the agility class, and 3 in the basic class.
Our Doggy-Style Fitness Class begins in February - but sorry, this session is full! If you are interested in signing up for our next session, please contact us dogtraining101@hotmail.com. Class runs 8 weeks every Saturday morning at Madjam Fitness Studio on Bronte Street.
We will also be starting our Smart Dogs Bootcamp. This class will run continuously throughout the year, outdoors, rain or shine. It is for all skill levels, and is excellent for both beginners and vetrans. This class will get your dog in shape both mentally and physically, and you'll move a little too. This class will get results and will go over all the basics, in all conditions under all distractions. If you want a well behaved, reliable dog in all environments, this class is for you!! Starting in March 2012.To sign up for any of our classes please contact dogtraining101@hotmail.com or visit the official website www.smartdogsk9.com for more details. And don't forget to like us on facebook www.facebook.com/smartdogsk9.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Bulldog Agility - Milton Ontario Agility Training
The table ... an often overlooked, and under-trained obsticle. Get's a lot of the novice competitors.
We like to make sure our dogs understand it, and have the self control to perform it.
Here's Cambull's Jinx learning the ropes ... uh, I mean table.
Interested in trying out the sport of dog agility? We are offering our Smart Dogs Fun Agility Class - a perfect way to get a taste of the sport. You will learn ground handling skills, intro to equipment and trick training. Agility is an awesome sport, and a great way to build a better bond with your dog and have some fun! Check out our website for details.
We like to make sure our dogs understand it, and have the self control to perform it.
Here's Cambull's Jinx learning the ropes ... uh, I mean table.
Interested in trying out the sport of dog agility? We are offering our Smart Dogs Fun Agility Class - a perfect way to get a taste of the sport. You will learn ground handling skills, intro to equipment and trick training. Agility is an awesome sport, and a great way to build a better bond with your dog and have some fun! Check out our website for details.
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