Methodology
I employ a combination of classic obedience and english field training as well as the operant conditioning principles of B.F. Skinner to provide a truly balanced approach to your dogs training. We do not advocate for treat based or purely positive training methods as these methods, while popular, are not based in science and not an effective method of training long term. We promote learning through the addition of both positive and negative stimuli and the removal of both. We train the dog incrementally and build on small victories. We teach the dog to be compliant and the owner to be a leader. We focus on building a bond between the owner and the dog rather than the dog and the treat bag. This is how we teach the dog to look to YOU for direction rather than react on instinct.
Why train your dog?
We have nearly 4 million dogs dying each year due to lack of training, improper training, or simply no training at all. nearly 50% of all puppies are given up within the first year. These numbers are shocking, & they remind us that it is our duty as owners to train our dogs to help them function in a human centered world.
Sending the right message.
Many owners are extremely unrealistic about their dog and how they interface with the world. Dogs are not like us, and love is not an emotion they perceive or value all that much. They value leadership and confidence in a pack leader. Our dogs are eager to know what we expect from them and it’s our job to bridge that communication gap. We show you how to lead so your dog knows who to follow.
Leadership is not punishment.
Too often in modern dog training we see programs that rely too heavily on a purely positive approach, or a purely negative approach. While in the past many trainers relied on crude methods of corporal punishment. Both approaches miss the mark entirely. We teach your dog using a balanced approach using toys, play, and through the addition of both positive and negative stimuli and the removal of both.
