Is it Spring Yet? Really? Well then get outside! Dog Training in Milton

I don't think I was exaggerating when I mentioned to someone that we've had about six months of winter, something I never want to think about again. But, and I say this with fingers crossed, I think we've past the worst of the worst, and we're on our way, finally, to spring.


That all being said, with the warmer weather upon us, it's time to get those dogs out and start practicing your obedience in parks, on walks, and anywhere that you take your dog. Dogs are contextual learners, meaning, for example, that you can teach them sit inside the comfort of your own living room, but the command becomes something new and different when you start to teach it on the walk, or at the park. Dogs need to learn, and be taught, that obedience is required everywhere, under every circumstance, and this can not be done without practicing in all circumstances so that the dogs become fluid in their knowledge and behaviour.

Keep in mind, when training and practicing, that the addition of distraction sometimes means that you have to take a step or two back to regain control, and there is nothing wrong with that. Taking a step or two back in training allows your dog to be successful under the new distraction or in the new environment, therefore facilitating learning, and making your job as a trainer far less frustrating. The more successful repetitions that you have, the higher the chance that your dog will continue the correct performance.


So if you want your dog to behave on the walk, at the park, or at your neighbours yearly BBQ, you need to take the time and practice in those situations so that your dog understands what is expected of him/her, and you can help them achieve this understanding in a fair and consistent way.

Have fun and enjoy the coming warm weather.

www.smartdogsk9.com

Spring Time Recall Training - Dog Training in Milton Ontario

 Little Hunter practicing some long leash recalls for the first time.

Spring has sprung as of a few days ago, but the weather certainly doesn't feel like it. Apparently, on March 21st of last year, it was 23 degrees out ... sort of depressing, but here's hoping to a nice warm summer!

Along with the approaching warm weather (or so we're told its approaching) comes more time outside with your dogs. And more time outside with your dogs is the perfect time to start working on training around distractions, and longer distances on your recalls to solidify them.

Here are a few tips if you've practiced short leash recalls, and indoor recalls, and want to take your recall training to the great outdoors:

*Utilize a 15-30 foot leash
*Start in an area that has little distraction in regards to other dogs/people
*Allow your dog some free time on that long leash (about 15 minutes) to roam around, sniff, and basically be a dog
*About 5-8 times in that 15 minutes, call your dog to come
*Reward every response, even if you have to help them with the leash to get to you (reward doesn't always have to be food - it can be a toy, a game, big time praise - use what motivates your dog)
*As they get better utilize more and more distraction
*ALWAYS remember they are a good boy/girl for coming - never call your dog to get them in trouble
*Train recall on your walks (with your regular 6 foot leash) as well to get them used to coming in all situations

Get out there, have some fun, train your dogs!

www.smartdogsk9.com

Beginner Dog Training Classes in Milton Starting in March

Smart Dog Basics group class will help teach you how to start to gain control of your canine companion under distraction with all of the basics of obedience - come, stay, sit, down, heel. We also save time for question and answer including topics like house training, crate training and other "typical doggy issues". This is A MUST for all dogs, the most important class that you need to take! This is a one size fits all class, all ages, all breeds and all sizes welcome!

Class runs for 7 weeks, one hour once a week, cost is $200 plus HST. Puppies & dogs are required to have all shots.

Thursday evenings starting March 20th, 7-8pm (2 spots left)

Saturday mornings starting March 29th, 10-11am (4 spots left)

Please contact us to sign up dogtraining101@hotmail.com or visit the website for details www.smartdogsk9.com