Dog training advice. When hiring a dog trainer, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure a successful experience for both you and your dog. First, look for a trainer with proper credentials and experience, ideally certified by a recognized organization like the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) or the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP). Their training philosophy is also important. Positive reinforcement techniques are widely recommended as they encourage good behavior through rewards rather than punishment.
Consider the trainer’s experience with your dog’s specific breed or behavioral issues. Communication is vital, so choose someone who is patient, listens to your concerns, and explains training techniques clearly. It’s also helpful to observe a session or ask for references to gauge the trainer’s effectiveness and approach. Remember that training is a partnership; the trainer should involve you in the process, teaching you how to reinforce good behavior at home. Ensure that the dog training environment is safe and conducive to learning, whether it’s in a group setting or private sessions. By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you can hire a dog trainer who will help your pet develop good habits, improve behavior, and strengthen your bond.
by Jen Pearson, Head Trainer at Front Range K9
As a pet dog owner, the idea of reward-based training is likely very appealing to you – after all, you love your dog and want her to be happy! When we see a dog with laser focus and attentiveness to her handler, it looks awesome, right? She takes her treat eagerly and may even offer other behaviors in the hopes of keeping the game going. What could possibly be wrong with a training system that does that? (more…)
by Dan Spangler, certified trainer & owner of A Dog’s Dream
Your forever day is coming, and it seems like everything is coming together perfectly. The dress is fitted, the venue is chosen, and the photographer has taken the engagement photos, but then suddenly you feel like something is missing. As you sit there tapping your leg trying to figure out what is wrong, your faithful friend walks up and puts his head in your lap and looks up at you with “those” eyes. That’s it! You forgot to include your trusted companion in your big day. Oh no! (more…)
by Patricia Varian, owner of Varian Kennels
Have you ever tried to quit a bad habit? Easy? No! The longer you’ve been doing that unwanted behavior the more triggers there are that set it off. It seems impossible to ever be truly free from that old nasty routine. But, alas, triggers can be broken, and new habits can form! Not only with us humans, but for our pets as well! It just takes a combination of enormous self-control and time. (more…)
by Katie McKnight, co-owner of International School For Certified Dog Trainers
Imagine you settle into bed after a long day and drift to sleep. Moments later, a loud shriek awakens you. You bolt from bed and investigate the ghastly sound. In the corner of the room, something thrashes beneath a blanket. Frozen in place, you’re left with a decision: fight or flight? (more…)
by Tammie Rogers, owner of DarnFar Ranch and author of “10 Most Common Mistakes Dog Owners Make: And How to Resolve Them!”
My brain was struggling to catch up with my body as I raced from my office. When I got to the kitchen, I acknowledged that I was running toward the sound of a puppy in peril. By the time I entered the laundry room, I had gauged the severity of the screaming. I was going to find a puppy that was dangling, perhaps with its toe caught in the wire gate, ripping flesh off its precious little foot. I hoped it would be only that—although that seemed horrific enough. The shrieking was rhythmic, about a howl per second. I could hear the labored inhale between each cry. (more…)
