Our training methods don't use leash and collar corrections so no need for special "training" collars.
We teach voluntary and default behaviours in our training classes. We put the onus on our dogs to learn what behaviours are needed in certain situations. No need for commands or corrections because the dog learns that there is value in doing what we have taught them.
Teaching your dog to go to their mat, stay on their mat and have calm positive associations with their mat makes going away from home an easier transition!
Early training to love going to the mat!
Advanced training to go to the mat from a distance and stay on it until released:
In our training classes we teach active and passive mat exercises. Mat training is also a good way to proof distractions and get longer stays. Join our next set of classes! http://pawinhand.blogspot.com/p/step-one.html
Daisy had a sleepover at our house for a few days. Her owners were in hospital with their new baby girl ... Congratulations!!!
I don't know whether Daisy has ever played the hand target game before or not but she is an enthusiastic learner!
I played around with her for a bit -- tempting her to touch my open hand and the moment her nose touched my hand I marked it with a crisp clear "Yes" and immediately placed a treat in the same target hand that she had just touched. A few repetitions and high value rewards made the game very reinforcing! Movement and happy praise and interaction came along with the package.
Daisy quickly caught on and followed my hand to the left side or right side of my body, in walking position and coming towards me. These positions could eventually have a verbal cue applied such as "side" or "close" for when encountering other users on trails or "heel" or "front". When walking on leash a hand target could also be used in distracting situations to help the dog focus on you. Using a hand target also helps your dog comes close to your body when called.
The hand target itself becomes a reward for many dogs just for the chance to play such a fun game with you.
We teach the hand target as one of the foundation behaviours in our training classes. Join us!
New session of classes: Companion Dog Training Your instructors Maren Bruun, Paw In Hand Pet Services & Kate Mutzke, Fresh Start Dog Training
When: Classes start 6:30pm - 7:30 pm /7:45pm - 8:45 pm Sundays Oct 17 - Nov 14 no class on Oct. 31 Where: Brennan Park Community Center / Auditorium Register: $100 / 4 classes, register at https://www.squamishlive.ca/
What to expect: STEP ONE focuses on attention, on and off leash and impulse control issues. Using Positive Reinforcement, motivation and benevolent leadership. Covers: Sit/down/stand stays to teach dogs how to settle, and recalls away from distractions. Working on and off leash through everyday life challenges; from greeting people politely with four on the floor, to curbing bad habits of chasing vehicles, skateboards and bikes included. We will also cover appropriate social skills when meeting other dogs. Result: Your dog will be eager to follow your benevolent lead whether at home or out on the trails. Prerequisite: Enthusiastic owners and their happy go lucky dogs ... those in need of some training but not with any serious behaviour issues. If you are unsure contact us to discuss your dog and assess your needs. Age: 5 months and up
*Private sessions available to those working towards a class environment.
What to bring: Your dog (wearing a plain buckle collar), You (wearing comfortable outdoor clothing), 6 foot plain leash, walking harness if you use one, scrumptious small soft dog treats that your dog will jump hoops for, special toy that your dog goes googly eyed over, and a soft mat.
* Please leave your dog in your vehicle when you first arrive (with leash attached if it is safe to do so). Bring your gear (treats, toys and mat) to the meeting area.
