Back to Basics ... Dog Trainer in Burlington Ontario

Back to Basics - what does it mean?

Well, typically, when someone says back to basics, there is a flaw in whatever process they were using, and they need to take themselves back to step one and start over in order to fix the issue causing the flaw.

When we encounter issues with our dogs, usually a back to basics approach will give us the leverage to deal with those issues. Often times, issues can be resolved by taking your dog back to step one, meaning re-approach the training process as if the dog were a new pup all over again.

It is usually obvious that control from the owner, and self control on the part of the dog is lacking when we see common behavioural issues such a jumping, mouthing, excessive barking, etc. Teaching your dog self control through obedience is a very important process that all owners should take seriously. Proper obedience training allows owners to gain back control, gives dogs an opportunity to offer a correct behaviour rather than a destructive one, and enforces self control in the dog.

Going back to basics with your dog to resolve issues requires owners and trainers to seriously reconsider the previous approach to training and decipher what when wrong. Sometimes it was moving on with a command too quickly before the dog actually understood what was being asked, sometimes it involved a lack of proofing around real life distractions, other times it was the method itself that was lacking. Taking an honest and serious approach to retraining is needed in order to garner better results the 2nd time around.

So, if you are experiencing issues with your dog, rethink the original training process and be honest with yourself about what went wrong. There is no shame in going back to the drawing board and both you and your dog will be better off for it.

www.smartdogsk9.com

No Gentle Leaders please ... Dog Training in Milton

The Gentle Leaders and Halties have never been a choice of mine for dog training (and yes, I have used them correctly in the past with my own dogs so I am speaking from personal experience). I find them fairly useless in regards to actual training and in certain cases, down right cruel. The pressure being applied to the nose and the potential damage that can be caused to the neck if a dog suddenly bolts are enough reason for me never to recommend using them. As well, for many dogs, the constant rubbing at the ground or pawing at them to try and relieve themselves of the device is very disconcerning as a good majority of dogs who wear them, never actually get used to their presense.

It is my personal choice to steer clear of them both for my own dogs and my clients dogs.

Please see the below article from a fellow trainer for a more in-depth look at Gentle Leader and why is is not so gentle:

http://dogsintraining.wordpress.com/2011/03/29/not-so-gentle-leader/#comments

www.smartdogsk9.com

We're Walking Again!! Dog Walker in Milton Ontario

Yes it's true, we are offering our walking services once again to clients in Milton. Private walks, potty breaks, training walks and in-home boarding. Your dog is in good, knowledgable hands with us.

Smart Dogs Canine Training is insured and criminal record checked to provide the following services in addition to our Training Programs.

Potty Breaks:


$15.00 for 15-20 minutes - Includes letting your pup/dog out for a bathroom break, one-on-one time, treats and water bowl top up if need be.

Private Dog Walking:


$20.00 for 1/2 hour (1 dog) - minimum requirement of 2 walks per week
$28.00 for 1/2 hour (2 dogs from the same household)
We only offer private walks at this time with the exception of multiple dogs from the same household. This ensures the safety of your dog, allows the dog more one on one time, and gives you peace of mind that full attention is on your dog during his or her walk. During thunder storms we will still come and give your dog a potty break and some play time in the house.

Private Solo Training Walk/Session:


$35.00 for 30-45 minutes (1 dog) - minimum requirement of 2 training walks per week for 1 month
A private, half hour session that includes basic or advanced dog obedience (sit, down, stay, heel, & recall building duration and distraction) with a professional trainer. A great option for those who do not have time for group obedience or private training. Weather permitting. Report cards given on training progress at the end of the month as well as a free 15-20 minute session with owner and dog to go over what the dog has been taught and how to handle him or her. Proper training equipment is required (6 foot leash and training collar) - we will advise what will work best for your dog.

In-Home Boarding:


$45.00 a day for up to 14 days
Leave your dog with us while you vacation! We offer in-home boarding on a limited basis for our clients. Peace of mind knowing your dog isn't locked in a kennel all day. A great, dog friendly home, with plenty of exercise and attention, as well as socialization with our own dogs. And what makes us different from the others? We offer your dog training time!! We work with your dog on the basics of obedience to keep their minds sharp and keep them entertained throughout the day.
Bring your dogs own bed and crate to make them feel at home, or they are welcome to use ours. We will feed, walk, play with, groom and administer simple medication at no additional costs. To board with us, your dog must be house broken, crate trained, 100% good with other dogs and children, and must be fully vaccinated. At this time we are only accepting dogs up to 30 lbs. We only take ONE dog at a time, so please book well in advance.

But My Dog Still Won't Sit ... Dog Training in Milton Ontario

You've searched out a trainer, you've taken the classes, but your dog still doesn't listen. What's going on?

You need to take a step back and ask yourself, did I really put in an honest effort? Practicing for one hour, once a week will not make a trained dog. Owners need to follow through at home, at the park, on a walk, or where ever they take their dog. If you don't do the homework, don't expect your dog to heed what you're asking.

As the old saying goes, practice makes perfect, and it's no different in dog training. This does not mean that you have to drill your dog for hours on end, each and every day (that gets tedious and boring). It means that if you take 20 - 30 minutes out of your day, every day (say, during commercial breaks, or when it's doggy dinner time), spread it out, and practice in short bursts, keeping it quick, fast paced and fun, you will see much better results than if you rely soley on the once a week classes.

It's unfair to expect your dog to take you seriously when you put in little to no effort.

There is, possibley, another reason that your dog might not be listening, and if you've put in the effort and the time, but are still not seeing results, it's time to revisit the method thats being used. Sometimes a shift in the techniques you are using is required. Not all dogs respond the same to each method. If you think this might be the case, talk to your trainer and explain your worries, that is of course, only if you can truly say you've done your homework, and no, the dog didn't eat it.

www.smartdogsk9.com

Puppy Class in Milton - Dog Training in Milton Ontario

We've got two spots left in our upcoming Puppy Class starting June 17th.

Class will run for 5 weeks from 10-10:45am Sunday mornings. Cost is $160.00.

Smart Puppy Basics will help teach you how to start to gain control of your canine companion. We help you to teach your new puppy some of the basics in a fun, positive environment. We will work on socialization games, go to your mat and discuss house breaking, crate training and other puppy "issues".

10-20 weeks of age.

Visit the website to sign up www.smartdogsk9.com or contact us dogtraining101@hotmail.com